Towards agroecological transition in degraded soils of the eastern Amazon

ABSTRACT This article explores factors that incentivize farmers to adopt diversification practices in agriculture (agroecological transition). The research was conducted between January 2013 and November 2017, involving eight agrovilas (rural villages built for relocated communities) in the Alcântara municipality, Maranhão– Brazil. Activities included training courses, workshops, farmer’s field visits, implantation of productive systems, and continuing technical assistance. Semi-structured interviews were carried out to understand the environmental perception of farmers involved or not in the agroecological transition process (n = 41). The farmers undergoing an agroecological transition in Alcântara have augmented their diversity of cultivated species by 76%, mainly tree species. Interestingly, formal education was unrelated to the adoption of more biodiverse systems or the promotion of environmental protection actions. Likewise, families with more income from non-agricultural sources tend to diversify less and not to plant trees. Non-formal education through spaces such as knowledge exchanges represents an important means of encouragement. On the other hand, land tenure insecurity discourages the adoption of perennial practices such as agroforestry systems. Public policies that value the implementation of agroecological transition systems are decisive for achieving the success and adherence of more farmers.