Exploring the economic, environmental and social benefits of adopting Good Agricultural Practices

Abstract

Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) encompass three fundamental pillars: safety, environment, and quality. The main objective of this study was to analyze the economic, environmental, and social benefits of implementing GAP in soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) production in the Naranjal district, located in Alto Paraná, Paraguay. Special attention was paid to analyzing the implementation of technologies, the challenges faced by producers, and the benefits they obtain from adopting these practices. A descriptive methodology with a quali-quantitative approach was employed, using surveys and semi-structured interviews. The benefits reported by producers after adopting GAP included: expense control, increased productivity, lower occupational risk, soil management and conservation, efficient pest management, reduced water pollution, and greater biodiversity and safety. The investment is considered profitable, being mainly directed towards improving structures. Six out of ten interviewed producers financed GAP with their own resources. The study delved into the economic, environmental, and social effects of applying GAP in soybean production, highlighting the need to address current challenges such as accessibility and incentives to promote its adoption and long-term benefits. It can be concluded that the adoption of GAP constitutes a beneficial strategy in economic, environmental, and social terms.