Author(s): THOMSON, C. R.; ABREU, L. S. de; OLIVEIRA, D. G.

Summary: Abstract: The research aimed to review the context in which the Brazilian regulation of organic agriculture was conceived and to conduct a study of the first PGS (Participatory Guarantee System) registered in Brazil. Such PGS is part of the Campinas and Region Natural Agriculture, located in the state of San Paolo. The research sought to understand the farmers´ objectives and motivations for adopting the PGS and their experiences within this social control mechanism. The participants in this research identified as main advantages of the PGS: extended experience sharing, participatory decision-making and collective strategies for purchase and marketing. Those previously certified by third party systems unanimously declared that the PGS proved to be more stringent and reliable as an organic conformity assessment system. However, the farmers also highlighted that paperwork required by the government from PGSs has increased and that indirect costs continue to be the main challenges that they face.

Publication year: 2014

Types of publication: Paper in annals and proceedings

Unit: Embrapa Environment

Keywords: Agricultura orgânica, Certificação de produto, Organic certification, Organic production, Organic seal, Participative organic quality assurance systems, Participatory guarantee systems, Regulamentação