Dinâmicas e desafios da agricultura familiar: caminhos e rumos para o fortalecimento social e ecológico no município de Rio Grande/RS

Abstract

We currently live in an Era dominated and guided by the capitalist principles of development where modern and consumer life deepens planetary crises. These crises generate serious negative consequences for marginalized populations, such as the rural space, when the environment is analyzed from the perspective of the subjects and their networks of relationships. Based on the problem presented, the present study is based on a bibliographical investigation considering contributions of Sustainable Development theories based on the principles of Agroecology, in addition to other classic and contemporary authors that support the debate. In view of the better delimitation of the study, the research is directed towards the families of Family Farming that seek a “more ecological” production, known as “in agroecological transition”. In this sense, we seek to carry out a case study of two family production units in an attempt to better understand how the relationships and practices between producers and their surroundings, with ATER technicians, with the market and, of course, take place. , with the State itself. With this, we seek to point out some central challenges that emerge from this reality that, at times, hinder the social and ecological development of agroecosystems. For this purpose, data collection was carried out through an approximation with the subjects, on-site visits and interviews, which were later analyzed using the Content Analysis technique, accepting the multidimensions of sustainability from the Agroecology (ecological, social, economic, cultural, political and ethical) as the categories of analysis, for later interpretation. Thus, an experience of organic production of vegetables, with certification via OCS and structured marketing at fairs, at PNAE and, recently, via baskets. The other experience is a dairy cattle unit with regular use of homeopathies (tick and mammite control), as well as the use of rational pastures, direct planting, care in the use of land and offer of silage as a supplement to creation.The interpretation of the data suggests that there are countless challenges to be faced by families that seek a more ecological production, however, these experiences present a relative potential for socio-environmental advancement through mutual support, solidarity and the union of subjects. There is also an important presence of public services of Technical Assistance and Rural Extension in the municipality that can serve as support for the respective strengthening of Family Farming, however, the State does not replace the importance of social movements towards greater autonomy, freedom and dignity.