CONSTRUCTION AND USE OF INDICATORS FOR AGROECOLOGICAL PRACTICES AND PROCESSES: THE CASE OF PARTICIPATORY CHARACTERIZATION OF NATIVE FRUITS IN THE LUTA CAMPONESA NUCLEUS FOR AGROECOLOGY

CONSTRUCTION AND USE OF INDICATORS FOR AGROECOLOGICAL PRACTICES AND PROCESSES: THE CASE OF PARTICIPATORY CHARACTERIZATION OF NATIVE FRUITS IN THE LUTA CAMPONESA NUCLEUS FOR AGROECOLOG

Abstract

The main objective of the research was to analyze the process of participatory construction and use of indicators for socioenvironmental characterization of native fruit species as a methodological reference for other agroecological processes. Its justification is based on the urgency of rescuing and promoting a plant domestication process that promotes sociobiodiversity. The public was composed of six groups of farmers from the Luta Camponesa Nucleus, located in the south central region of Paraná State. The method used principles of action research. As a result, the selection and socio-environmental characterization of seven priority native fruit species stands out, as well as the construction of the main limits and opportunities for the valorization of these species. In addition, the research presents three fundamental lessons for agroecological processes and practices in other territories: avoid specialization and build processes that function as an interdependent continuum; valuing the participation and knowledge of the farmers involved in the process through knowledge dialogue; and prioritize actions that give materiality to change the scenario based on available conditions.