Potential of eco-innovation in agroecology

Abstract

In the context of the environmental crisis, this study aimed to identify and analyze the potential of eco-innovation in agroecological production in Brazil, by mapping the demand for technological information from users on the access platform to the Brazilian Technical Response Service (SBRT). To this end, we applied the quantitative research methodology, based on the survey of technical responses and technical dossiers related to the following keywords: “sustainability”, “sustainable development” and “environment” specifically in the sector of agriculture, which contains 2068 technical documents. As a result of the research, only 79 responses and technical dossiers were retrieved, equivalent to 3,8% of the total documentary sample, having been accessed by 1628 users, representing 41% of the total number of unique accesses to the collection. Regarding the technological information contained in these documents, 38% are associated with organic agriculture, while 24% were categorized as “alternative agricultural practices”. The results demonstrate the potential of eco-innovation in agroecology, but also reveal the low contribution of SBRT to the theme and the business profile studied. Therefore, an accurate assessment of the issue of eco-innovation in agroecology is suggested, based on field research, the study of which will contribute to a better understanding of this business profile and support future strategies within the scope of the SBRT, in favor of its engagement with commitments made in global agreements to deal with the environmental crisis.