Jimenez-Osornio 2003

The Lowland Maya Area

References

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Introduction

• Poor management of natural resources leads to contamination, biodiversity loss, erosion, and desertification.

• These problems increase social inequalities, contribute to poverty, and drive migrations.

• Agricultural advances in the 20th century have not fully addressed poor nutrition caused by unequal resource distribution.

• There is a need for alternative agricultural practices that balance food production and environmental protection.

Key Questions

• Can we increase food production using modern technology without further environmental and social degradation?

• Consideration of local environmental characteristics is crucial for technology adaptation and success.

Sustainable Resource Management

• Effective management requires:

  1. Economic incentives

  2. Intensification of production systems

  3. Integrated resource use

  4. Community self-management

• Innovations needed include:

  1. Leadership roles for collaboration among stakeholders.

  2. Introduction of effective training methods.

  3. Creation of sustainable production methods based on agroecological knowledge.

  4. Enhanced adoption of efficient resource use systems.

The School of Ecological Agriculture (SEA)

• Initiated in 1992 by "Pastoral of the Land" group under the Catholic Church.

• Aimed to teach campesinos to use natural resources effectively for food security and economic development.

• Offers a comprehensive education program including:

  • Horticulture, animal production, agroforestry, and Maya culture.

  • Emphasis on practical, hands-on project work.

Organization

• Features an advisory board of institutional representatives and alumni.

• Monthly meetings address SEA needs and ensure project adaptation.

• Diverse faculty including local professionals, professors, and traditional herbalists.

Impact and Outcomes

• SEA has graduated five classes; 138 students from Yucatán and surrounding areas.

• Graduates promote ecological methods in 65 communities, combining technical and traditional knowledge.

Lessons Learned

• Importance of hands-on, dynamic learning and applied research.

• Mutual respect and flexibility amongst participants strengthen collaboration.

• Effective communication is crucial in ensuring successful knowledge transfer.

• Recognizing the value of historical knowledge from campesinos enhances learning outcomes.

Conclusion

• SEA exemplifies grassroots development through collaboration and educational innovation.

• Ensures local community leaders are trained to demand action and effect change.

• Focus on shared goals retains engagement among diverse participants.