Where the rhetoric of sustainability ends, agro-ecology begins: grassroots fieldwork in Latin America

Article Abstract:

Latin American farmers and non-governmental organizations are showing a renewed interest in the agro-ecological concept of food production. This implies new farming techniques based on local involvement, expertise and means. The aim is to keep up farmers' productivity without compromising the environmental aspects. The non-governmental organizations in the region stress the following thrusts in their programs: improvement of basic food production, reassessment of agricultural knowledge and techniques, promotion of effective use of local materials, growth in crop and animal variety and enrichment of natural resources.

Environmental aspects, Latin America, Agricultural ecology

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Calibrating a yardstick for sustainability

Article Abstract:

Sustainable agriculture refers to the long-term productivity of food production systems. However, coming up with a reliable method to evaluate a system's sustainability may prove difficult. Technical problems have to be surmounted. These include accurate information regarding the present and future effects that land-use systems have on input and output needs, future prices, trend evaluation of particular economic indicators and climatic conditions. It would most likely take a considerable amount of time before an accurate analysis could be done. In the meantime, vital decisions need not be deferred.

Analysis, Sustainable agriculture

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Realigning the pieces on Latin America's trade chess-board

Article Abstract:

The signing of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) by Canada, Mexico and the US is opposed by Brazil and other Latin American countries that have proposed the setting up of a South American Free Trade Association as a counter-move. Colombia, Mexico and Venezuela have formed a Group of Three common market to negotiate better trade terms with other Latin American nations.

International trade, South America

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