Sítio Paraíso, Assentamento São Luiz II - Sapopema/PR

Agroforestry at the Heart of Assentamento São Luiz II
The story of Assentamento São Luiz II, located in Sapopema, Paraná, is a testament to the power of agroforestry as a tool for restoration and sustainability. In 1986, Renato dos Santos Moreira and Maria Dilce Moreira planted ten Araucaria seeds, with only one germinating. From this single seedling grew a commitment to reforest degraded land and establish sustainable agricultural practices. Today, agroforestry systems (SAFs) are central to the property’s productivity, integrating native species, fruit trees, and crops into a harmonious ecosystem. These systems not only enhance biodiversity but also restore soil health, sequester carbon, and provide food security for the family.

A Model of Agroecological Diversification
The transformation of Assentamento São Luiz II was further strengthened in 2012, with support from the Programa Matas Legais. Technical guidance and the donation of 2,090 native Atlantic Forest saplings allowed the family to expand their SAFs and restore their Permanent Preservation Area (APP). Combining agroforestry with organic farming, livestock, beekeeping, fish farming, and forestry, the property embodies agroecological principles, such as ecological balance, circular resource use, and self-sufficiency. Each practice complements the others, creating a resilient and regenerative production system that sustains both the family and the environment.

Inspiring Agroecological Transitions
The success of Assentamento São Luiz II has inspired other farmers in the region, such as Douglas and Selma Alcântara, who are working to implement sustainable agroforestry systems on their property in Japira, Paraná. Facilitated by Apremavi, a knowledge-sharing visit highlighted the practical benefits of SAFs, such as increased productivity, climate resilience, and community connections. For Renato and Dilce, this exchange reflects the core of agroecology: collaboration and the dissemination of knowledge. “Everything starts with a seed,” Renato shared, underscoring the potential of small actions to catalyze significant change in rural landscapes.

Agroforestry as a Path to Sustainability and Ecotourism
In addition to their agroecological practices, Renato and Dilce have embraced ecotourism as a way to share their vision with others. Their property, part of Assentamento São Luiz II, offers a unique opportunity to experience agroforestry systems in action, with Renato and his son, Rodrigo, acting as guides. Visitors learn how diversified systems not only produce food but also restore ecosystems, conserve water, and enhance local biodiversity. This holistic approach to farming serves as a blueprint for sustainable land use, demonstrating that agroforestry and agroecology are key pathways toward ecological restoration and rural vitality.

Renato and Maria Dilce dream of expanding their agroforestry systems to include even more native and fruit-bearing species, creating a thriving ecosystem that can sustain future generations. They envision their property as a living example of how agroecology can restore degraded lands, foster biodiversity, and provide healthy, pesticide-free food. Beyond their own farm, they hope to inspire more families in the region to adopt sustainable practices, turning their community into a hub of agroecological innovation. Their ultimate dream is to see Assentamento São Luiz II become a beacon of hope and education, where farmers, students, and visitors from around the world can learn about the transformative power of working in harmony with nature.