Evaluation of the Sustainability of Sugarcane Expansion in the State of Goiás

Abstract

The expansion of sugarcane cultivation, and the development and modernization of the sugarcane sector, have contributed to the strengthening of Brazilian agribusiness, thereby contributing to the growth of the country's economy. Thus, it is necessary to adapt agricultural or agro-industrial activities so that the entire productive system has a positive impact on the environment and society. In this sense, the objective was to evaluate the sustainability of the expansion of sugarcane cultivation in the State of Goiás. The methodology was based on the application of the Sustainability Barometer-SB Method. Thus, subsidies were provided to create a portrait of the sustainability of the expansion of the culture in the state. The results indicated that the sector occupies a medium/intermediate position in relation to Sustainability according to SB. We conclude that the method has the potential to be an important tool in assessing the sustainability of the sugar-energy sector in Goiás.