Experience of an interdisciplinary and interinstitutional survey of extensive agroecological production in General Pueyrredon (Buenos Aires, Argentina)

Abstract

Discussions on the social and environmental risks associated with the prevailing agricultural production model have been at the forefront of the Argentine public agenda for more than two decades. In this context, in recent years -especially since the COVID-19 pandemic- part of the public policy decisions have been oriented towards the promotion of agroecology as an alternative production model. However, the scarcity of updated information hinders public policy decisions. In 2020, an interdisciplinary and interinstitutional team (INTA - CONICET/UNMdP) started the process of geo-referencing and characterization of agroecological fruit and vegetable experiences in General Pueyrredon and surrounding areas. On this basis, the team expanded to explore those extensive productions with agroecological bases. The paper presents the mapping experience, focusing on the process of design and implementation of the methodological strategy, and on the challenges and difficulties encountered. For this purpose, an exploratory qualitative-quantitative research is proposed. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with extensive agroecological producers using the "snowball" strategy to form the sample. This work approaches agroecology from a holistic and systemic perspective. Among the main results is that, in comparison with the fruit and vegetable sector, agroecology in extensive production is still incipient. The scale of production, marketing channels and technical support are highlighted as limitations, while the strengths are linked to the interest of consumers in obtaining "healthy" food, local regulatory frameworks and the search to reduce costs associated with sustainable technological proposals. It is planned to extend the study area to other districts of southeastern Buenos Aires in order to provide elements for the strategic planning of the territory.