Passivo ambiental na agricultura familiar: um estudo em comunidades do Brasil e México

Abstract

This study examines how the absence of a contextualized and integrated understanding of the drivers of environmental degradation in family farming hinders the development of effective mitigation strategies. It investigates the main factors contributing to environmental impacts in rural communities in Brazil and Mexico, as well as family farmers’ perceptions on the matter, aiming to support sustainable practices and locally sensitive public policies. The research adopts a qualitative and exploratory approach, combining a systematic literature review with empirical data collected through semi-structured interviews with farmers in Campo Mourão (Brazil), Atlacomulco, and Huamantla (Mexico). The data were analyzed using NVivo and IRaMuTeQ, and complemented by a SWOT analysis to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats related to rural environmental management. The findings show that environmental degradation is exacerbated by factors such as the indiscriminate use of pesticides, poor organic waste management, deforestation, and the lack of conservation practices. In Brazil, the key barrier is the weakness of public policies and lack of specialized technical assistance; in Mexico, traditional agricultural practices and poor infrastructure further intensify environmental challenges. Theoretically, the study contributes to the field of rural sustainability by incorporating farmers’ perspectives into the analysis of environmental impacts, promoting a more situated and dialogical understanding. Socially, it amplifies the voices of family farmers, often marginalized in environmental decision-making. Politically, it provides empirical evidence to support the design of more inclusive, territorially grounded, and effective public environmental policies. Practically, it proposes concrete actions, including technical training, expanded access to sustainable rural credit, and stronger environmental regulation with community participation. Thus, the study contributes to the sustainability debate in family farming and proposes realistic pathways to mitigate environmental damage in diverse rural contexts across Latin America.