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Small-scale agro-industral impact on the sustainability of family farming: a study of western Paraná

Abstract

The objective of the article was to analyze the impact of small-scale agro-industrial activity by family farmers on the sustainability of rural properties in the western region of the state of Paraná. The livelihood approach was used, and Propensity Score Matching method was applied to estimate the effects of small-scale agro-industrial on sustainability indicators of the family farms. Livelihood diversification is a strategy that families use to generate more stability under diversity and increase the level of social, economic, and environmental sustainability. Small-scale agro-industries had a positive impact on increase sustainability in the economic, physical, and natural capital dimensions, but there were no differences in the social and human capital dimensions. The programs to promote rural agroindustry on family properties should be included in sustainable rural development plans, in which technical assistance in rural extension plays a key role.

Keywords:
sustainability; sustainable agriculture; family farmer; small-scale agro-industrial; livelihood


Sociedade Brasileira de Economia e Sociologia Rural Av. W/3 Norte, Quadra 702 Ed. Brasília Rádio Center Salas 1049-1050, 70719 900 Brasília DF Brasil, - Brasília - DF - Brazil
E-mail: sober@sober.org.br