For many years, the solidarity economy (EcoSol) has been building short circuits to bring agroecological producers closer to the 'conscious consumers' who support these practices. Thus, it is possible to characterize EcoSol-agroecology networks.

 

Prior to the pandemic, the AgroEcos project was developing action research in order to strengthen these collective capacities. However, since the event, these networks have faced challenges in adapting their short circuits to the new hygiene requirements, as well as reducing income. The networks have created new safe measures for many purposes: to link agro-ecological producers with residents, to supply food needs and to maintain income. In this way, the networks found new opportunities to expand their solidarity activities.

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In view of our commitment to articulate debates on Agroecology and Solidarity Economy and integrate the discussions in the three territories: Baixada Santista, Bocaina and Valle Central, the AgroEcos team proposed to develop a series of seminars in order to promote dialogue about the reality of each territory, identifying the main gaps for strengthening agroecology and the solidarity economy, so that together we can find solutions.

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In this context, we will address the following guidelines:

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     • Efforts to maintain (even expand) short circuits linking agroecological production with consumption.

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           • Deeper interdependencies between producers, consumers and public policies.

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         • Strengthening collective capacities, especially for self-management (or shared management) of short circuits.

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          • Solidary relationships that fulfill various needs, such as welfare, income and food.

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          • Women's participation in these processes, especially as they face and overcome inequalities.