livelihoods and sustainable management of agricultural chemicals among rice farmers in the Santa Lucia canton, Guayas province
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62305/alcon.v5i3.566Keywords:
Livelihoods; rice production; agrochemical use; Saint LuciaAbstract
This research aims to analyze the livelihoods of rice producers in the Bermejo de Abajo area of the Santa Lucia canton in the province of Guayas, and their perceptions of sustainable agrochemical management. This analysis seeks to generate relevant information that contributes to the development of policies and strategies aimed at improving agricultural sustainability in the region. The study involved a population of 94 families, surveying heads of households. The capital theory was applied, with the average age of 54 years in human capital. 42.6% of the population had primary education, and the average household size was 3.5 people. Regarding social capital, the most representative ethnic group was the Montubio (Montubios), with 97.9%, and 83% of respondents belonged to a producer association. Regarding natural capital, 59.7% of producers owned 3 to 5 hectares, and the main crop was rice, with the 011 variety being the most widely planted under the floodplain system. Regarding financial capital, 51% believe their income is sufficient to pay for a living, while 42.6% have access to formal credit. 72% of producers have an average production yield of 60 sq/ha, and the sale price ranges between USD 30 and USD 53/sq. Finally, regarding physical capital, 100% have deeds, 57.4% report that the access road to the farm is dirt, 76% own their own vehicle, and 90% have internet access. Regarding perceptions of the use of agrochemicals, 80.9% consider them essential to achieve satisfactory production. They also state that their use has negative effects on human health, the soil, and a negative environmental impact. On the other hand, 42.6% would be willing to reduce the dose and frequency of agrochemical use, while 38.3% would opt for using biological products as an alternative. In conclusion, there is a need to strengthen human capital through training and access to technologies that enable efficient and environmentally sustainable production.
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