Práticas ambientais adotadas por cooperativas e associações de agricultores familiares de Ibiúna, São Paulo: um estudo de multicasos

Abstract

Taking into consideration that agriculture is one of the fundamental activities of humankind and that it depends among other things the power of man, this study aimed to analyze the environmental practices of rural labor cooperatives play a key role in spreading knowledge and technical guidance to farmers, within the context of family farming in Ibiúna, SP. Thus, the theoretical framework of the research was based on the context of family farming and the diversity of studies that focus on this concept in Brazil, its development and modernity. Also sought theoretical understanding about environmental practices in the field and training of farmers in cooperative groups, their desires and peculiarities. The research methodology was qualitative exploratory character, from an analysis of documents, files, indirect observation and semi-structured interviews to study the environmental practices from the perspective of family farming. The strategy adopted was a multiple case study, with an individual analysis of each case and subsequent data obtained in the interviews were triangulated compared between them. The results contribute to the practice, with five models of structured co-operative organizations and / or associations which play a key role in spreading knowledge and technical guidelines for environmental practices, preserving and contributing to environmental sustainability. Among the 18 analyzed practices, four stand out with best score between the groups, they are: the reuse of organic waste, energy saving, soil analysis and knowledge related to environmental legislation. The samples reveal that cooperatives and rural workers associations within the context of family farming contribute to environmental preservation, demonstrating technical expertise and a more harmonious relationship with the environment.