Abstract

RAMOS-PRADO, José M. et al. Biocultural and socioeconomic dimensions of sustainability in agroforestry systems diversified with cacao and vanilla. Rev. Mex. Cienc. Agríc [online]. 2023, vol.14, n.3, pp.401-412.  Epub June 19, 2023. ISSN 2007-0934.  https://doi.org/10.29312/remexca.v14i3.3093.

Agroforestry systems and productive diversification are sustainable alternatives that reverse the damages and risks of conventional agriculture. There are few sustainability studies that allow them to be incorporated into projects aimed at increasing profitability and improving the welfare of producers, restoring ecosystem services. The objective was to assess the sustainability of two traditional agroforestry systems, diversified with cacao and vanilla, in the states of Veracruz and Oaxaca. Agroecological techniques and business development strategies were promoted with the families of both producers. The research was carried out during the period: February 2012 to July 2020, the plots are located in the municipalities of San Pedro Ixcatlán, Oaxaca and Papantla, Veracruz. The methodology of the framework of assessment of natural resource management systems was used. The results showed that the initial states had a low intensive management, low use of inputs, high diversification and oriented to subsistence agriculture. After diversification, agroecological management and business development, transition states have improved in most sustainability indicators. In particular, profitability (benefit-cost index), which reached 1.2 for San Pedro and 2.6 for Papantla when added value is given to vanilla and cacao. The participation of women in emerging activities derived from diversification and the interest of young people to continue with activities of transformation of raw materials and the commercialization of value-added products are relevant.

Keywords : Theobroma cacao L.; Vanilla planifolia A.; agroforestry; business development; MESMIS; productive diversification.

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