Socio-ecological analysis of passion fruit production in the Ariari region (Meta, Colombia)

Résumé fourni par la source

The cultivation of passion fruit in the Ariari region of Meta, Colombia, represents an effort to explore new economic opportunities in a region historically shaped by complex social dynamics. These include the influx of landless peasants altering the agricultural frontier, the presence of illegal actors, forced displacement, illicit crop cultivation, and the return of dispossessed farmers. This study examines the progress and challenges associated with achieving sustainable production in this area through the framework of socio-ecological systems. To this end, a mixed-methods research approach was employed—using a matrix of variables grouped into resource systems and units, governance, actors, and interactions—through which structured and semi-structured interviews were conducted, followed by focus group discussions with passion fruit producers to analyze the information obtained. This methodology revealed areas of progress toward sustainability, primarily associated with the recognition of the value of natural resources, the presence of strategic ecosystems, and extensive agricultural development. It also enabled the identification of key challenges to further progress in sustainability, including forest degradation, deforestation, excessive use of agrochemicals, pollinator decline, perceptions of insecurity, high concentration of rural land ownership, leasing as the predominant form of land tenure, limited engagement in social organization, insufficient technical assistance, and lack of support for commercialization. These findings offer a roadmap for future research and action toward the transition to more sustainable systems.

Ce résumé expose les affirmations des auteurs. BNTIC ne l’interprète pas comme une validation indépendante des résultats.