Extension as an instrument of socio-environmental development and scientific training: the experiences of the ESAL Herbarium - UFLA, Lavras, Minas Gerais Antônio Massensini Júnior, Bárbara Mourão, Mariana Esteves Mansanares

Abstract

The ESAL Herbarium (Federal University of Lavras) constitutes one of the most important collections of plant biodiversity in the central south region of Minas Gerais. With an important history of research into the surrounding flora, the Herbarium began its extension activities only recently (around five years ago), following the restructuring and modernization of its collection. As a sample of these activities, we present here brief reports of four actions carried out by our Herbarium team: I) an important and award-winning work using the "Horta as a pedagogical resource"; II) a scientific illustration project of the types contained in the collection, favoring their use in various activities, without harming their preservation; III) the evaluation of the use of "flagship species" in environmental education and biodiversity conservation actions; and IV) "Holding scientific dissemination events in unusual spaces", with the aim of publicizing the importance of Botanical Sciences for the preservation of biodiversity. Thus, we hope to enable the exchange of experiences and encourage extension practice as an important instrument for promoting a fairer and more socially and environmentally balanced country.