Integrated management of agroecosystems in Latin America: An option to maximize production while protecting biodiversity

Manejo integrado de agroecosistemas en América Latina: Una opción para maximizar la producción resguardando la biodiversidad

Abstract

This review of research in Central and South America is focused on considering alternatives in the integrated and diversified management of agroecosystems, in order to conserve their biodiversity and water resources. Based on the premise that biodiverse ecosystems are more ecologically resilient, it is considered important to use greater efforts to raise awareness among small, medium and large producers, in order to employ agronomic practices in accordance with the environment that protect the soil, improve the quality and productivity of crops, optimize the nutritional quality of forage for livestock feeding, and even mitigate the emission of greenhouse gases. In order to spread these practices, it is necessary to use a protocol adapted to each of the countries and regions in which productive self-sufficiency with a minimum of environmental impact is desired. For this, the planning of the farm is considered as a first step and then, based on the needs of the producer, achieving its diversification and integration with more environmentally friendly practices, in order to contribute to the maximization of the system and productive self-sufficiency.