PARQUE ECOLÓGICO DAS TIMBAÚBAS: UM PARADOXO NA RELAÇÃO HOMEM-NATUREZA EM JUAZEIRO DO NORTE (CE)

This article aims to reflect on the paradox about the man-nature relationship that exists at the Timbaubas Ecological Park in Juazeiro do Norte (CE), with focus on the aspects of the quality of urban life, education for sustainability and environmental degradation. The research fits in the condition of Case Study, which has a qualitative method as a methodological approach, it held in bibliographic and documentary analysis, besides field visits. Timbaubas Park is the largest and only green area of permanent preservation in Juazeiro, largest city in Ceara´s interior experiencing large demographic and economic growth. The guiding question of the study is: “How can you promote quality of urban life and environmental education in a degraded space?” It was proven by the accomplishment of the research that the Timbaubas Park, although having an indispensable and outstanding relevance in man-environment interaction, ecological function, leisure, and aesthetic, is degraded in many ways. Decisions need to be made to provide better structuring of the above equipment so that it fulfills its purposes as a quality place that promotes urban life and environmental education practices. Key words: green areas, urbanization, awareness, environment.