COMPETITIVIDADE E SUSTENTABILIDADE AMBIENTAL EM PROPRIEDADES RURAIS: O PROGRAMA AGRÁRIA DE CERTIFICAÇÃO RURAL

Abstract

This research is justified by the lack of scientific studies about rural properties’ certification in Guarapuava-PR region. Therefore, this research aims to analyze the relationship between competitiveness and environmental sustainability of rural properties that have joined the Agraria Rural Certification Program. To the research accomplishment, it sought to know and describe the Agraria Rural Certification Program, besides to verify how it contributes in the management of properties and analyze whether it contributes to the competitiveness in rural properties, lastly identify in which way it acts in the environmental sustainability actions. Before the planned objectives, general and specifics, the most appropriated strategy for the research was the case study, through qualitative methods, which were conducted taped interviews with the responsible for the certification program, with the rural producers and the responsible for the implementation of the program. The survey results indicate that the internal factors of the company lead to competitiveness, in the management area was observed that the certification program contributes to the management of the property, as it allows the producer to work in an organized and safe manner with the use of safety equipment. Such actions are related to the search for better productivity on rural properties. In relation to environmental sustainability actions, it was observed that this is not the main concern of the producer, was also not the reason that led him to join the certification program, the actions taken are done due the legal requirements and the program requirements, so it was found out actions to do not contaminate the soil, selective collection, as well as separation and disposal of waste and also potability of water analysis that is consumed by resident employees in properties. Regarding the analysis of the results of the relationship between competitiveness and environmental sustainability, the producer is 'well-regarded' in the market when he develops environmental actions and this leads to competitiveness. There was no certified property or in an implementation program process in the environmental area, in addition, it was noted in the reports that investments are considered high in actions involving the environment and there is no financial return.