Evaluation of sustainability attributes of farming systems in the El Meson, municipality of Palmira, Valle del Cauca (Colombia)

Abstract

Using the methodology Assessment Framework Management Systems integrating Sustainability Indicators (MESMIS), the sustainability of production systems 21 peasants belonging to the Agricultural Association ASOAGROCAM “Agricultural Farmers Association of the El Meson” was evaluated, the Municipality of Palmira (Valle del Cauca Colombia). Attributes productivity, stability, reliability, resilience, adaptability, equity, self-reliance and environmental citizenship in each production system were considered. It was found that the predominant management system transition to agroecological (5), followed by the agro (16). The sustainability of production systems requires strong support by local decision makers in promoting the marketing of peasant products. We conclude that productivity in production systems ASOAGROCAM depends heavily on products intended for consumption and generation of self-employment. Performance is limited by the lack of space marketing agro-ecological products, which reduces the generation of income for rural families. In the attribute environmental citizenship it is that farmers recognize the political, cultural, economic and productive dimensions of sustainability.