Natural resources and development in Minas Gerais state, Brazil: a study for selected municipalities

Abstract

This paper aims to analyze the role played by mining on regional development by using Minas Gerais’ case as subject of research. Based on a set of selected indicators, the work shows how Minas Gerais’s municipalities have been impacted by mining in the first two decades of current century, remarkably over the so-called commodity prices boom. For that, the research methodology was qualitative research, based on both literature review and secondary indicators on mining and socioeconomic data analysis. As general output we highlight that mining dependency remains as a great challenge in terms of social and urban development in Minas Gerais. Since mining is based on production of non-renewable goods and it have been affecting urban relationship and environmental al all, this model of growth asks a massive debate about its potentials and risks for economics and livelihood.

Keywords:
Natural Resources; Regional Development; Minas Gerais; Mining