Cinzas do sertão: análise das queimadas em Juazeiro do Norte, Ceará a partir do binômio problema-solução pública

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the public problem of wildfires in the municipality of Juazeiro do Norte, Ceará, from a public management perspective, as well as to discuss public policy approaches to address this phenomenon. Methodologically, it is a mixed-methods study (qualitative and quantitative), with an exploratory and descriptive nature and a documentary research design, based on secondary data from the National Institute for Space Research (INPE), the Fire Department, and institutional records related to fire occurrences. The temporal scope of the research covers the period from 2020 to 2025. The methodological procedures were structured in two main stages: (i) problem diagnosis, through spatial analysis of heat hotspots using geoprocessing techniques in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), with emphasis on Kernel density estimation; and (ii) formulation of alternatives, based on the application of the benchmarking technique, through the identification and analysis of institutional experiences aimed at wildfire prevention and control. The results indicate variations in the number of occurrences throughout the analyzed time series, with a reduction in the early years and a significant increase from 2023 onwards, remaining at high levels in subsequent years. Spatial analysis revealed concentration patterns, especially in transition areas between urban and rural spaces, highlighting the influence of territorial, environmental, and social factors. In addition, the data indicate a higher incidence of occurrences in specific periods of the year, suggesting a relationship with climatic conditions. Based on the diagnosis of the public problem, public policy alternatives are discussed using the benchmarking approach, including proposals for environmental monitoring, institutional strengthening, and preventive actions. In this context, the study proposes the implementation of a municipal system for monitoring heat hotspots using satellite data and information technologies; the incorporation of wildfire and climate change issues into municipal planning instruments; and the strengthening of operational capacity through the creation of municipal brigades and the training of local teams. Thus, the study contributes to understanding the dynamics of wildfires at the municipal scale and to the debate on public management strategies aimed at mitigating this environmental problem.