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Integrated assessment of environmental, economic and social sustainability of maize in Chiapas, México

Abstract:

In this research, the sustainability of traditional and alternative maize producing agroecosystems was assessed in three ejidos in the Selva Region of hiapas, using an agroecological approach (MESMIS). The study was conducted over two farming cycles: milpa and tornamil. In the fi rst, the slash, fell and burn (S-F-B) system was assessed, with no burning and in rotation with velvet bean (Mucuna deeringiana Bort.). In the second cycle, three systems with no burning and differing periods of velvet bean use were analysed, and plant density was modifi ed to analyse its effect on production. Economic and social indicator values were found with participative techniques. During milpa, fi re was found to have a positive effect on weed and pest (Diatraea liniolata Walker) control. The alternative systems with use of green manure showed better agronomic results. Grain yield was found to be higher, and profi tability was greater in the systems with modifi cation of plant density. In the fi nal integrated analysis, the alternative systems obtained better results, although positive results were observed in some variables due to the S F-B system's adaptation to the environment. So, its use in the region constitutes an ethnocultural reality which is far from disappearing in the near future.