As redes sociotécnicas do etanol: estudo de caso de Ribeirão Preto (SP)

Abstract

This study investigates, based on the theories of Latour, the way one interact and articulate socio-technical networks in order to reinforce the technologies. To support the research we used the concept of socio-technical networks and translated it into the development of technologies and innovations, instead of using it like the author purposed, it is, to evaluate and understand the academic production and its dynamics. On a second moment, we investigated the relationship between the culture of sugarcane, and the developments that this culture has endured over the centuries, culminating in the direction of the current generation of sustainable energy. Yet at this point, are identified the actors in the network, linked to the development of ethanol. In a third step the analysis is performed, for which are important to understand, who the actors are, whether they are strong or weak, and indentify the responsible for developing and positioning the network. The case study takes place in the city of Ribeirão Preto, where are located important actors to the sugarcane economy.