Balancing agri-food production chains and the well-being of traditional communities

Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) in the Brazilian Cerrado: balancing agri-food production chains and the well-being of traditional communities

Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) play a vital role in diverse supply chains—including food, footwear, and cosmetics—providing not only income, energy, and food security for primary producers but also supporting ecological functions, cultural traditions, and social cohesion within traditional communities. The strengthening of NTFP value chains is seen as a strategic pathway to localize and advance specific Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By enhancing these chains, there is significant potential to empower traditional populations, preserve their cultural heritage, and protect biodiversity. Despite these benefits, structuring NTFP supply chains to ensure that traditional communities maintain control presents numerous challenges. Poorly managed NTFP chains can lead to ecological harm, such as biodiversity loss and overexploitation, as well as negative social impacts. Current research is limited in scope, with insufficient empirical studies, especially regarding the socio-cultural dimensions and the interplay of local, national, and global forces. Power imbalances in these chains often result in local producers receiving disproportionately low returns, while intermediaries and retailers capture most of the value.

This research adopts an interdisciplinary, and mixed-methods approach to investigate the role of traditional communities in leading NTFP initiatives, focusing on the Baru nut supply chain in the Brazilian Cerrado, particularly in Mato Grosso do Sul. The study aims to understand the socio-economic, cultural, and environmental impacts of NTFP chains; the influence of governance, institutions, and power dynamics on sustainability; and the challenges and opportunities for sustainable management and market access. Methods include document analysis, interviews, surveys, participatory techniques, and quantitative data analysis.

By emphasizing community-driven initiatives, the project seeks to highlight innovative, sustainable practices that promote economic, social, and cultural empowerment, while addressing deforestation and land conversion. Ultimately, it underscores the importance of human rights and equitable benefit-sharing, positioning sustainable NTFP management as a key element in achieving ethical and inclusive development.

The project is conducted by Júlia de Sousa e Berruezo.