In the heart of the Amazon, a quiet revolution is brewing among small farmers, one that could reshape the future of sustainable agriculture. A recent study published in ‘Boletim de Indústria Animal’ and led by Aline Pacheco, has shed light on the perceptions and practices of small farmers in Santarém, Pará, regarding sustainable agriculture, offering a glimpse into the potential of this often-overlooked sector.
The study, which surveyed 13 small farmers in the Lower Amazon region, revealed a surprising level of awareness and commitment to sustainable practices. Despite their small-scale operations, primarily for self-consumption, these farmers demonstrated a high level of knowledge about sustainable agriculture. “Most of them expressed interest in making their property fully sustainable but did not know how to do it,” the study noted, highlighting a crucial gap that, if addressed, could unlock significant potential.
The commercial impacts of this research are profound. With 84.6% of respondents reporting they do not use chemical fertilizers and 92.3% avoiding pesticides, these farmers are already aligning with the growing global demand for organic and sustainably-produced goods. As consumer preferences shift towards environmentally-friendly products, these small farmers could become key players in the market, provided they are given the right tools and support.
The study also underscased the importance of education in driving sustainable practices. With 61.5% of respondents having higher education, it was evident that knowledge is a powerful catalyst for change. This finding could guide future developments in the field, with a greater emphasis on educational initiatives and capacity-building programs for small farmers.
Moreover, the study highlighted the potential of crop-livestock integration, a practice adopted by only 46.2% of respondents. This technique, which involves combining crop production with livestock raising, can enhance soil fertility, improve farm productivity, and contribute to a more sustainable agricultural system. By promoting this practice, the agricultural sector could see significant improvements in efficiency and environmental sustainability.
The research also pointed out the lack of participation in agro-ecological fairs and cooperatives among the respondents. This presents an opportunity for the agricultural sector to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing among small farmers. By facilitating their participation in such platforms, the sector could help these farmers access new markets, share best practices, and ultimately, enhance their commercial prospects.
In the words of the study, “sustainable farming plays an important role for society in the social, economic, and environmental aspects.” As the agricultural sector looks towards the future, the insights from this research could guide the development of policies and programs that empower small farmers, promote sustainable practices, and unlock the commercial potential of this vital sector. With the right support, these small farmers could become the backbone of a more sustainable and profitable agricultural system, benefiting not just themselves, but society as a whole.