The social transformation around the cultural identity and the rural economy in the face of the expansion of sugarcane agroindustry

A case study in five rural neighborhoods in Piracicaba/SP

Abstract

The research addresses, from the perspective of the notion of multifunctionaityl of agriculture, the forms of social (re)production and market insertion. Notably, from memory of shared perceptions, the study shows that two neighborhoods developed a favorable framework for diversification of activities and income, with emphasis on rural tourism and the marketing of agri-food products with added value. In contrast, three neighborhoods have limited perspectives and community ties weakened due to the expansion of the sugarcane agro-industry, restricting opportunities, especially for local youth.