Transição agroecológica: estudo de caso da associação das mulheres - AMA Vergel

Abstract

The agriculture modernization and industrial growth coupled with the implementation of public policies has led to a major exodus from the country, notably between the 60 s and 80 s when around 13 million people have fled the field and headed towards the urban centers. This equates to 33% of rural population in the early 60's. The rural settlements emerge as an opportunity to return to work the land, and in addition to that, the application of agroecological principles emerges as a great option to conventional agriculture. The objective of this research was to analyze the association of agroecology women of Vergel (AMA Vergel) during a process of agroecological transition, rescuing the life history of the group members and the history of the group emergence as well. The possibilities and limitations that exist within the group were analyzed from the perspective of solidary economy. We studied the ownership and involvement of research actors on learning concepts in agroecology. There was a strengthening of group work which enhances the autonomy and recognition of that, and moreover, the self-esteem of female members of the group is higher, despite facing opposition inside and outside the family. The performance of various institutions working with the group resulted in a large accumulation of information, but as they are not attuned to each other and had different temporal perspective from the group, they did not achieve the expected success. In recent years the group has expanded their contacts with other agroecology realities. An example of good association of agroecological knowledge, related to agricultural practices and life in society, could be seen on small farm Nova Vida . Women who join to work in group look for strength to face the adversities and an opportunity to improve the quality of their lives and of their families.