Multifunctional production systems in Brazil : Opportunities, barriers, and implementation

Abstract: As populations grow and the call for renewable energy increases, so does the demand for biomass. However, the sustainability of biomass production has been debated. Concerns involve both negative environmental impacts from agricultural production, as well as the effects of increased bioenergy use on food security. Multifunctional production systems are a potential solution to these issues where environmental benefits are promoted in addition to maintained or enhanced biomass output. This study investigates multifunctional production systems in Brazil, as well as incentives and barriers for implementation within the Brazilian context. A systematic literature review was used to identify previous research on multifunctional production systems in Brazil. The review was then complemented by semi-structured open-ended interviews with local experts. The study found that even though common terminology from the field of multifunctional production systems was not frequently used in the Brazilian context, the systems were both studied and implemented. It was also concluded that economic feasibility is a prerequisite for successful implementation. However, factors like environmental circumstances, farmers perceptions, knowledge, and traditions are also important. Thus, effective adoption requires strategies combining economic incentives, policy incentives as well as educational tools.