O sistema da bioeconomia do açaí no contexto amazônico de Abaetetuba/PA

Abstract

The concept of bioeconomy has undergone continuous transformations since its earliest mentions, expanding in scope and application. To deepen the understanding of its origins and evolution, this research approaches bioeconomy from academic, political-institutional, and Amazonian perspectives. This conceptual basis enabled the identification of the foundational elements of the Amazonian bioeconomy and, more specifically, the structure of the açaí bioeconomy. This product, essential to the diet of riverine populations, has become a global commodity, driving an economic activity that generates employment and income for thousands of families in the region. Pará is the largest açaí producer in Brazil, and the municipality of Abaetetuba, the focus of this study, holds the third-largest production in the state, establishing itself as an important hub of goods and services in the Baixo Tocantins region. However, this activity faces political-institutional, economic, social, technological, and environmental challenges involving traditional communities, government institutions, and business sectors. In this context, the primary objective of this research is to demonstrate how the açaí bioeconomy is structured within the Amazonian context of Abaetetuba/PA, proposing a systemic model with its core elements. Through a literature review, document analysis, and interviews with key actors in the production chain, it was possible to develop an analytical model in diagrams, representing both the Amazon Bioeconomy System and the Açaí Bioeconomy System. These models provide an integrated view of the interactions among their different components, allowing a systemic understanding of the challenges and opportunities involved. As a result, the analysis revealed both strengths and weaknesses of this complex system, indicating that açaí production cannot be understood in isolation or linearly but rather as part of a living system, in which multiple factors mutually influence final outcomes. Furthermore, the research highlighted the importance of public policies that encourage the formalization of the production chain, access to credit, technical assistance, and the implementation of sustainable management practices. Based on the issues identified throughout the research, contributory proposals were developed to improve governance strategies. These proposals are directly aligned with the study's findings, addressing observed demands and gaps while strengthening the articulation among the various actors, processes, and activities involved.