Agroecological territorial dynamics: considerations about brazilian settlements

Abstract

Purpose: In this article we present agroecological experiences in rural settlements in the municipality of Rio Bonito do Iguaçu, Paraná State, Brazil. By analyzing the advances and challenges of these initiatives, we aim to highlight the need for broader, systemic and multiscale actions in favor of building an agro-food system which promotes food and nutritional sovereignty and security of local/regional communities and thereby contributes to the development of territories. Methodology: This is a case study based on semi-structured qualitative interviews with settled families and representative entities. Findings: we observed that the practices have contributed to the construction of a socio-environmental consciousness, a more sustainable soil management, the increase of agrobiodiversity, improvement of health and income, as well as greater access to commercialization channels. Research Limitation: There are challenges and demands regarding training in agroecology, technical assistance, support in organizing farmer groups, financing, construction and consolidation of marketing channels for the income guarantees of families. Originality: A considerable mobilization of local actors was observed, which impacted the implementation of agroecological initiatives, but a more discrete participation of actors from other scales, which limits the enhancement of experiences as mechanisms of territorial development.