Promotion of sustainable agroecological production for smallholder farmers in rural São Paulo

General

This project will strengthen viability of small farmers' agroecological production through improved production of and training in production and use of bioinputs (natural fertilisers and non-chemical pest control based on ecological principles), and production of research and evidence. This will take place through 1) establishment of on-farm bioinput production unit laboratory and school (composting, liquid biofertilizer plant and biological control laboratory) at the Paulo Kageyama Agroecological Training Centre, Jarinu, SP for use on a 5 ha experimental area and (2) expansion of Cooperativa da Terra's bioinputs unit (inoculants, bio-defensives, biofertilizers) at Pirituba II Farm in Itaberá, SP for use on a 200 ha area of grain production. The inputs will be used by land reform settlement families practicing agroecological farming or in transition. Expected impacts include improved knowledge, dissemination and commercial viability of bioinputs for food production, leading to improved food security and sovereignty, preservation and restoration of natural resources, production and incomes of small farmers. Chosen technological inputs will be proven, small scale, simple and low-tech but scientifically sophisticated, adapted to local ecological and geographical conditions, and suitable for technology transfer. Activities will include installation of equipment, technical courses, exchange programme, production of evidence about bioinputs, accompaniment of food production using bioinputs, learning. CAFOD's support will enable: acquisition of materials for the units, (e.g. wood chipper, manure tank, steel tanks); technical support; training costs. Beneficiary farming families as follows: 30 from training and accompaniment, 60 from access to bioinputs, 270 from dissemination of learning. Indirect beneficiaries from Agroecological production from: 3000 grocery consumers, 2000 people on enFF courses, 3000 food insecure families in SP receiving donations of fresh food.