Ocupar, resistir e produzir: famílias assentadas e feiras agroecológicas na Região Metropolitana de Porto Alegre

Abstract

The food trade has played a crucial role in human history, influencing global geopolitics. From ancient empires to modern agro-industrial conglomerates, there has been a complex interplay of geopolitical forces, technological advances and social issues related to food production, distribution and consumption. Family farming gained official recognition in Brazil, with the creation of PRONAF in 1995 and the Family Farming Law in 2006. Furthermore, alternative agri-food networks emerged as a response to massive food trade, aiming for more sustainable and fair solutions for production. and food distribution. The globalization of the agri-food sector has impacted agriculture, leading peripheral countries to focus on monoculture exports and adopt modern inputs. Open-air markets are important spaces for the sale of fruit and vegetables. Meanwhile, if in conventional fairs the products sold can be obtained through the use of agrochemicals, in agroecological fairs the production processes strictly follow the principles of sustainable agriculture. The consumption of agroecological organic foods is on the rise, and agroecological fairs play a vital role in the solidarity economy, allowing the direct sale of healthy products at fair prices, strengthening communities and promoting consumer awareness about the origin of food. The general objective of this thesis is to examine the dynamics of agroecological product fairs in the metropolitan region of Porto Alegre from the perspective of agrarian reform settler families involved in this process, with an emphasis on the challenges, perspectives, opportunities and experiences accumulated throughout of the period in which this alternative agri-food network operates. The fairs in the metropolitan region of Porto Alegre, such as Feira da Auxiliadora and Feira do Lindóia, have their origins in the Copaero cooperative and play a crucial role in the marketing of organic products. Furthermore, the region's first Organic Fair also contributed to meeting the growing demand for healthy foods. These fairs established bonds of trust between farmers and consumers, strengthening settled families and promoting sustainability. Young people now see agriculture and participating in fairs as promising career options. In short, these initiatives play a vital role in promoting a healthier and more sustainable community in Porto Alegre.