The paths of agroecological transition: challenges and advances in agroecology in the Vale do Rio Pardo region/RS.

Abstract

In this research, we explore the challenges and advances of agroecology in the Vale do Rio Pardo region, RS/Brazil, from the perspective of family farmers during the process of agroecological transition. The "Green Revolution" resulted in several environmental damages, but mainly affected the way of organization and production of family farmers. This model is unsustainable for regional development. We understand that the way to overcome this model goes through the process of agroecological transition, a process of evolutionary conversion from conventional agroecosystems to ecologically based ones. Using phenomenology as a method of approach and supported by the dimensions of agroecology, we analyze the challenges and cultural and institutional advances faced by family farmers during this transition. We highlight the commercialization initiatives at rural fairs and institutional food programs, such as PAA and PNAE. However, the constant cuts in government resources undermine these policies and affect the volume of food sold by farmers. The support and participation of technical assistance institutions in the follow-up process still require more qualification in the agroecological transition theme, but their performance has already been important to overcome several current challenges. Likewise, strengthening the work of cooperatives and associations, from monitoring the production and organization of family properties to marketing logistics, one of the main challenges reported by the interviewed families. However, the difficulties found in the relationship with the surroundings of the property generate important challenges, which it was possible to overcome based on the example and the results obtained with the production.