Rede Pouso Alto Agroecologia

The Pouso Alto Agroecology Network (Rede Pouso Alto Agroecologia) emerged from the collaboration between the Ecooideia Cooperative and the UnB Cerrado Center of the University of Brasília, aiming to promote Territorial Development Based on Conservation (DTBC). Established on May 19, 2014, it brought together various organizations, including the RIV – Rede de Integração Verde, Cooperativa Frutos do Paraíso, and Instituto Biorregional do Cerrado, alongside representatives of Kalunga communities, such as the Quilombo Kalunga Association (AQK). The Network’s foundation relies on ancestral knowledge as a cornerstone for agroecology, promoting sustainable practices that integrate conservation with cultural and social inclusion.

The network unites governmental and non-governmental organizations, farmer associations, research institutions, rural unions, cooperatives, and educational entities across the Chapada dos Veadeiros region and the Federal District. Its primary objectives include improving rural production, fostering agroecological technologies, and enhancing social well-being. Through collaboration with universities, research centers, and field education organizations, the network supports cooperatives and producer associations with tools for sustainable development. Its initiatives emphasize organic agriculture, extractivism, and socio-biodiversity, encouraging exchanges between projects to promote low-impact, sustainable practices.

Since 2015, the network has organized the Chapada dos Veadeiros Seeds and Seedlings Fair, now in its 9th edition, providing a vital platform for sharing traditional seeds and agroecological knowledge. It also promotes training programs, technical assistance, and consumer awareness campaigns to encourage the consumption of regional organic and extractive products. Currently, with 61 member organizations, including four Kalunga associations, the network champions traditional populations, emphasizing their role in preserving genetic resources and sustainable production techniques. Guided by principles of cooperation, solidarity, and autonomy, the Pouso Alto Agroecology Network strives to enhance rural livelihoods, reduce poverty, and mitigate rural exodus while conserving the Cerrado biome.

Learn more at
https://pousoaltoagroecologia.org.br/a-rede/sobre-nos/

The Pouso Alto Agroecology Network aims to promote sustainable rural development by integrating agroecology, conservation, and cultural heritage. Its goals include improving agricultural production through agroecological technologies, enhancing the quality of life for rural communities, preserving traditional knowledge, and supporting the economic and social inclusion of family farmers and traditional populations, particularly the Kalunga communities. The network fosters collaboration between organizations, universities, and research institutions, encourages sustainable practices like organic farming and extractivism, and strengthens local economies by reducing poverty, creating jobs, and mitigating rural exodus, all while protecting the biodiversity and ecosystems of the Cerrado region.