Family farming produces about 80% of global food, being essential for food security and the rural economy. In South America, it represents 82% of establishments and generates 80% of the food, although it only occupies 18% of the agricultural land.
This productive model, based on traditional practices and territorial roots, is distinguished by its lower environmental impact compared to industrial agriculture.
Scientific Evidence
According to Tiempo Argentino, researcher Hernán Dieguez (FAUBA) compared the environmental performance of family and non-family farms in Argentina and Uruguay using satellite information. The results were compelling:
- In 96.8% of cases, family units showed better environmental performance.
- They conserve more natural habitats (forests and grasslands).
- They are more biodiverse and better protect the soil.
- They offer more ecosystem services, such as erosion control, soil formation, and water regulation.
An Intergenerational Legacy
Dieguez explains that the better environmental performance is related to the roots and long-term vision of family farmers, who seek to pass the land on to the next generations. This encourages them to adopt sustainable practices and promote multifunctional landscapes that generate environmental, social, and economic benefits.
Public Policies in Retreat
Despite its importance, in Argentina, support policies for the sector have been dismantled:
- Elimination of the National Institute of Family, Peasant, and Indigenous Agriculture.
- Dismantling of the ProHuerta program.
- Closure of the National Directorate of Agroecology.
- Defunding of INTA, weakening its capacity for technical assistance.
This leaves family farms more economically vulnerable and without institutional support to sustain their resilience.
Benefits of Family Farming
The contributions of this productive model are numerous:
- Food security: supplies local and national markets with healthy and varied foods.
- Environmental sustainability: conserves biodiversity and genetic resources, cultivating more diversely than industrial agriculture.
- Rural and social economy: generates employment and reduces poverty in rural areas.
- Cultural roots: keeps agricultural traditions alive and strengthens communities.
- Climate resilience: uses adapted techniques that protect the soil and mitigate climate change.
Family farming is much more than a productive system: it is a pillar of global food security and a driver of environmental sustainability. However, it requires public policies that recognize its value and strengthen its resilience.
Investing in this sector means betting on a future with healthier foods, more balanced ecosystems, and stronger rural communities.
