Índice de sustentabilidade das propriedades rurais da agricultura familiar no município de Quatro Pontes - PR

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the sustainability index of family farming properties in the municipality of Quatro Pontes, Paraná, Brazil, using the MADERUS methodology (Methodology for the Evaluation of Sustainable Rural Development). A total of 24 farms were evaluated, selected to represent key local agricultural activities such as grain crops, swine and dairy farming, fish farming, broiler production, and short supply chains. The analysis was based on 33 variables grouped into economic, social, and environmental dimensions, enabling a multidimensional and integrated sustainability assessment.The results show that sustainability levels differ according to the type of agricultural activity, revealing both strengths and weaknesses within each dimension. Short supply chains and swine farming demonstrated higher scores in the social and economic dimensions, while environmental aspects—particularly pesticide use and waste management—remain critical challenges. The study highlights the relevance of sustainability indicators as essential tools for diagnosis and strategic decisionmaking in family farming systems. Furthermore, it emphasizes that targeted public policies, continuous technical assistance, and farmer training are key elements to enhancing sustainability in rural communities. This research contributes to the broader discourse on rural sustainability by applying a participatory methodology that values local specificities and encourages farmers to take an active role in the assessment process. It concludes that sustainable family farming requires a combination of internal property management efforts and effective public policy frameworks that promote the long-term viability and dignity of rural livelihoods.