We propose to revolutionize the culture of food production and demonstrate the practical and economic viability of organic agriculture. By implementing productive Agroforestry Systems for family farmers in rural communities located around the Serra do Brigadeiro State Park, we will blend agriculture with forestry. We hope to promote the transition from from harmful agriculture practices and foster techniques to produce healthy, safe, pesticide-free, and environmentally-friendly produce.
Combat conventional agriculture techniques, which have made Brazil one of the largest consumers of chemical pesticides in the world and has contributed to deforestation, soil erosion, and slave and child labor. In 1996, approximately 540,000 people were affected by chemical pesticides in Brazil, resulting in 4,000 deaths. In 2002, the consumption of chemical pesticides in the region was estimated at 12 kg per worker. These chemicals pose long-term risks to the farmers and their families.
1) Implement Agroforestry Systems to demonstrate to farming families the economic viability and advantages of agroecology. 2) Promote the use of organic fertilizers, such as natural juices for soil nutrition and biological control to reduce costs and improve the quality and quantity of produce. 3) Inform the hundreds of visitors, school groups and volunteers who visit Iracambi about the health benefits of agroecological produce and its positive environmental impact.
The project proposes to implement and considerably increase the use of Agroforestry Systems, guaranteeing organic, nutritious produce that is safe for production, consumption, and the environment. In the long term, this will enhance the quality of life for local farmers, improve health by providing an alternative to chemical pesticides, increase family income through the sale of high quality produce, and promote environmental preservation.
This project has provided additional documentation in a PDF file (projdoc.pdf).
