Comparison of sustainability between the dual-purpose system and the silvopastoral system in the Zoque region

Resumen

Objective: To use the IDEA method (Sustainability of Agricultural Holdings) in the analysis of the dimensions of livestock systems (LS), which allows evaluating sustainability objectively.

Methodology: The evaluation was conducted in n=24 silvopastoral systems (SPS) and n=13 dual-purpose bovine livestock systems (DPBLS) in the Zoque Valley region of Chiapas, Mexico, using the IDEA method.

Design/methodology/approach: The resulting indicators were analyzed with the IBM SPSS statistical package, determining their normality, association and difference in the values obtained.

Results: The sustainability of SPS is defined by the socio-territorial scale (54.26), while in DPBLS the influence of the economic scale predominates (48.92). Statistically, there are no significant differences in the sustainability indicators between both systems.

Limitations on study/implications: In the LS studied, although they have similar levels, sustainability is determined by different factors. This divergence indicates that, while SPS prioritize holistic sustainability through agroecological synergies, DPBLS face the challenge of balancing profitability with responsible environmental practices.

Findings/conclusions: The absence of significant differences in sustainability denotes that management practices are decisive in the management of sustainability in the LS. More studies are required to evaluate the sustainability of the LPUs, as well as implementing public policies that establish rules for the responsible use of natural resources and the transfer of technologies.