O incentivo ao empreendedorismo sustentável como meio de promoção da educação ambiental no espaço formal

Abstract

This Master’s dissertation is part of the research line Conservation of Natural Resources and Sustainable Development, specifically within Environmental Educational Law, and aimed to analyze sustainable entrepreneurship as a means of promoting Environmental Education in the formal school setting, in accordance with Law No. 9,795/1999. The study was grounded in the recognition of the ecologically balanced environment as a fundamental right guaranteed by the 1988 Federal Constitution, under Article 225, whose effectiveness requires the reconciliation of economic development, social justice, and environmental protection in order to achieve sustainable development. In this perspective, Environmental Education was examined as both a legal and pedagogical instrument of transformation, as established by Law No. 9.795/1999, emphasizing its strategic role in the formation of critical, global citizens who share responsibility for sustainability. Considering the growing trend of entrepreneurial activity in the Brazilian economy, as shown by data from the Business Map – 1st Quarter 2025 Report, this research also investigated the role of Environmental Education in sustainable entrepreneurship when encouraged within formal education, in light of the guidelines set forth by the National Environmental Education Policy. The methodological approach unfolded in three stages: theoretical, through conceptual studies and historical outlines; exploratory, based on bibliographic and documentary research supported by legal doctrine and legislation; and empirical, with field visits to the Municipal Department of Education of Manaus (SEMED) and to Vicente de Paula Municipal School. The research adopted a deductive method and a descriptive and qualitative design.The findings confirmed the hypothesis that the school environment, by its formative nature, constitutes a privileged space for the integration of education and entrepreneurship through pedagogical projects that foster creativity, environmental awareness, and professional training. Furthermore, the analysis of initiatives carried out in public schools in Manaus highlighted the feasibility of such integration, even though, in many cases, these practices remain limited to annual science fairs. It is concluded that encouraging sustainable entrepreneurship in the formal school environment contributes to the effectiveness of Environmental Education, in accordance with the National Environmental Education Policy, strengthens socio-environmental citizenship, promotes professional qualification, and fosters income generation alternatives aligned with the constitutional principles of sustainable development.