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A Simplified Integrative Approach to Assessing Productive Sustainability and Livelihoods in the “Amazonian Chakra” in Ecuador

Author

Listed:
  • Bolier Torres

    (Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Estatal Amazónica (UEA), Puyo 160101, Ecuador
    Ochroma Consulting & Services, Tena 150150, Ecuador)

  • Marcelo Luna

    (Facultad de Ciencias de la Tierra, Universidad Estatal Amazónica (UEA), Puyo 160101, Ecuador)

  • Cristhian Tipán-Torres

    (Ochroma Consulting & Services, Tena 150150, Ecuador
    Instituto Superior Tecnológico Ciudad de Valencia, Puebloviejo 120201, Ecuador)

  • Patricia Ramírez

    (Facultad de Ciencias Jurídicas, Sociales y de la Educación, Universidad Técnica de Babahoyo, Extensión Quevedo (UTB), Km 3 1/2 Vía a Valencia, Quevedo 120550, Ecuador)

  • Julio C. Muñoz

    (Facultad de Ciencias de la Tierra, Universidad Estatal Amazónica (UEA), Puyo 160101, Ecuador)

  • Antón García

    (Animal Science Department, University of Cordoba, Rabanales University Campus, 14071 Cordoba, Spain)

Abstract

This study integrates the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework (SLF) and the Sustainability Assessment of Food and Agriculture Systems (SAFA) to evaluate the sustainability and livelihood dynamics of the Amazonian Chakra system, recently designated as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) by the FAO. Using data from 330 producers across three associations (Kallari, Wiñak, and Tsatsayaku) in the Ecuadorian Amazon, the study employed discriminant analysis to assess governance, environmental integrity, economic resilience, social well-being, and livelihood capitals. Results revealed significant disparities across associations in key sustainability dimensions. Kallari and Wiñak demonstrated stronger governance, environmental integrity and economic resilience, linked to mature organizational structures and effective governance mechanisms. In contrast, Tsatsayaku excelled in demographic diversity and larger landholdings but lagged in governance and environmental practices. Extreme poverty affected 82% of households, with Tsatsayaku having the lowest rate (69%) compared to Wiñak (89%) and Kallari (87%). Chakra income contributed significantly to livelihoods, accounting for 44% of total income in Kallari, 37% in Wiñak, but only 16% in Tsatsayaku, whose producers relied more on off-farm activities and livestock. The integration of SLF and SAFA methodologies offered a nuanced understanding of sustainability, highlighting the importance of governance, financial strategies, and environmental conservation in promoting resilience. Policies should prioritize participatory governance, market transparency, and credit access to address disparities and strengthen sustainability. These findings underscore the critical role of the Amazonian Chakra as a sustainable agroforestry system, providing economic and cultural benefits, while emphasizing the need for tailored interventions to enhance the sustainability of Amazonian producer associations.

Suggested Citation

  • Bolier Torres & Marcelo Luna & Cristhian Tipán-Torres & Patricia Ramírez & Julio C. Muñoz & Antón García, 2024. "A Simplified Integrative Approach to Assessing Productive Sustainability and Livelihoods in the “Amazonian Chakra” in Ecuador," Land, MDPI, vol. 13(12), pages 1-20, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jlands:v:13:y:2024:i:12:p:2247-:d:1549620
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