Agroecological farm analysis based on the 3D sustainability model approach

Abstract

The sustainability analysis of an agroecosystem is complex, given the multiple dimensions proposed by both the sustainable development and agroecology thematics. In this context, the 3D sustainability model proposed by Mauerhofer (2008) was chosen as the basis for this research, mainly because it includes the three dimensions—environmental, social and economic—but also because they are presented at another discussion level, in a cone. This cone represents a hierarchy, where its walls correspond to the carrying capacity and its base corresponds to capitals. Likewise, this model, besides organizing the dimensions in a hierarchical way, makes an in-depth analysis by presenting the relationships among capacities and capitals. Given agriculture’s importance to the survival of humankind and all social and environmental impacts related to this segment, the present research was developed towards an operational proposal of a specific 3D model for the analysis of agroecological farms located near or inside conservation units, since the original model has a global scale. In addition, this model could be applied in any agroecological farm of the world near or inside protected areas taking into consideration each particular context and making the necessary adaptation.