EVALUATION OF THE SUSTAINABILITY OF AGROECOLOGICAL PRODUCTION IN FOUR PRODUCTIVE UNITS OF EASTERN ANTIOQUIA BASED ON THE PARTICIPATORY CONSTRUCTION OF A METHODOLOGY BASED ON LOCAL INDICATORS

Abstract

In this paper a methodological instrument was constructed in a participatory manner based on local indicators, which allowed evaluating the sustainability of agroecological production, from social, economic, environmental and cultural variables

It was based on proposals built and validated by other authors by seeking to adjust, adapt and develop a new methodology, but especially, a didactic and easily applicable instrument, in confluence with four families from eastern Antioquia, who produce with an agroecological approach.

Soil degradation, decline in biodiversity, environmental pollution, low profitability, labor shortages, loss of ecosystem services and decline in the rural rate, due to causes related to the development model, are the main problematic areas.

MESMIS, MESILPA, which are existing proposals were analyzed and integrated, they provided the basis for formulating a new methodological instrument adapted to the local conditions of the territory. They have the capacity of being replicated in other territories. This process was linked to the participation of the farmer families appointed for this paper, who have experience in agro-ecological production.

The indicators were constructed with the participating families, in such a way that they allowed evaluating the sustainability of the agro-ecological production systems.