Monocropping and deforestation

 

Economic growth in Latin America is linked to an increase of agricultural output and exports, led by a surge in the demand for foodstuff worldwide.

 

The export model is mainly based on extensive and genetically modified agricultural production of monocrops such as soy and corn. Any output increment is tightly related with the further expansion of farmland, which is achieved through deforestation or with the concentration of small land holdings. Adding to the ecological damage, the proliferation of monocropping has wider negative social consequences on the countryside, such as the displacement of aboriginal populations and the destruction of the means of subsistence of small farmers.

 

¿Is economic growth to be achieved regardless of the means and the consequences?

 

For our project we will visit large soy farms in Argentina. We will also document on desertification in the Chaco and Formosa regions, as well as on the displacement of aboriginal communities historical attached to those territories.