Data or statistical facts on the situation and perspectives of agri-food systems and the impact of policies
Up to 70% of agricultural productivity growth in Latin America and the Caribbean is reduced when environmental costs are taken into account. The increase in production has been driven mainly by the intensive use of inputs rather than by technological or managerial improvements, highlighting the need for policies that integrate sustainability and innovation. (IDB, 2025)
The main agricultural, biotechnological, and post-harvest strategies for reducing cadmium (Cd) concentrations in the cultivation and processing of cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.), one of Latin America's most representative products, are reviewed. The study, focusing on Ecuador and other countries that produce fine aroma cocoa, evaluates techniques such as microbial bioremediation, phytoremediation with...
The study analyzes local development in the Quevedo canton (Ecuador) based on the strengthening of its agricultural production chains, combining a review of scientific literature and a territorial diagnosis. It identifies the structural conditions, levels of association, and degree of commercial integration of the main crops (bananas, rice, cocoa, African palm, and tropical fruits) revealing an un...
The study analyzes advances and trends in the use of artisanal biopreparations in Latin American agriculture, made with natural ingredients and native microorganisms as an alternative to conventional agrochemicals. Through a bibliometric analysis, it identifies the leading countries in research (Brazil, Cuba, Colombia, and Mexico), the main types of biopreparations, such as Bokashi, and the crops ...
The article analyzes how Colombia is leveraging its microbial biodiversity to develop biofertilizers, examining scientific advances, market trends, and regulatory challenges facing the country in its efforts to promote more sustainable and competitive agriculture.
The article assesses the sustainability of urban agriculture in the municipality of El Alto, Bolivia, analyzing its environmental, economic, and social dimensions. Through sustainability indicators, it identifies the strengths and limitations of local agricultural practices, highlighting their role in food security, organic waste management, and income generation for urban families. The study prop...
The article analyzes the biotechnological potential of the red macroalgae Kappaphycus alvarezii, Acanthophora spicifera, and Hypnea spinella as an ecological alternative for sustainable agriculture in Ecuador. It highlights their bioactive compounds—polysaccharides, amino acids, polyphenols, and phytohormones—which can replace synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. It also highlights that their...
The article reviews successful agroecological experiences in tropical livestock systems in Latin America and the Caribbean, highlighting cases in Colombia, Cuba, Haiti, Mexico, and Guadeloupe. It analyzes how integrated practices—such as adapted genetic management, nutrition with local resources, hormone-free reproductive management, and natural parasite control—improve sustainability, resilie...
The study presents a review of the use of remote sensors in agriculture, with an emphasis on their applications for banana cultivation (Musa AAA) in Costa Rica and other tropical regions. It evaluates three main areas: the delimitation of cultivated areas, the estimation of productivity, and the diagnosis of diseases. It analyzes the advantages of using satellite imagery, synthetic aperture radar ...
The article analyzes crop association as an alternative for the development of sustainable agriculture in Latin America. Through a review of 88 studies, it shows that polyculture, agroforestry, and silvopastoral systems improve productivity, profitability, and climate resilience compared to monocultures. It highlights the benefits for soil fertility, biodiversity conservation, and climate change m...
