An overview of the sugarcane expansion in the state of São Paulo (Brazil) over the last two decades and its environmental impacts

Abstract

The state of São Paulo is the leader in the sugarcane production in Brazil. However, the expansion of this culture has been associated with environmental impacts. In this scenario, the determination of growth vectors contributes to establishing areas of higher vulnerability and risks. This research assesses the development of sugarcane cultivation in the state of São Paulo between 1999 and 2019 from an environmental point of view, reviewing its environmental impacts associated with processing. Maps generated compiled information from different Brazilian databases, and the SWOT matrix (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) was considered for the areas. The state's land use maps showed the pasture conversion, with a 53.5% reduction in pasture areas and a 143.8% increase in sugarcane cultivation. Sugarcane cultivation and mills are located mainly in the Northwest and West of the state of São Paulo, especially in the administrative regions of São José do Rio Preto, Barretos, Franca, and Ribeirão Preto, which agrees with the state's Agro-environmental Zoning that guides agricultural land use. Such areas are the most susceptible to the immediate environmental impacts of sugarcane cultivation and processing in sugarcane mills and should be priorities for environmental management. The SWOT matrix highlighted the potential for sugarcane production in the state, considering the perspectives to overcome most weaknesses and threats. However, better land-use practices should be applied to sugarcane crops towards outweighing their limitations.