Energy sources and consumpption in rural family units in Alto Jequitinhonha, Brazil

Abstract

Energy plays a vital role in food production. This article aims to scrutinize the utilization of energy in family farming in Alto Jequitinhonha, situated in the northeast of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The article commences by evaluating the literature on agricultural techniques and energy consumption while emphasizing the unique aspects of traditional agriculture. The study's methodology is presented, which segmented the family unit into subsystems and identified inputs and derived products, converting them into standardized kilocalorie units. The findings showcase the circulation of local and exogenous ecological resources in these family units, with energy obtained through services, equipment, and inputs from purchases, subsidies, or community exchanges. Since the early 2000s, farmers in semi-arid regions have been utilizing a combination of local energy sources and external ones, which may be of biological or industrial origin. Monetary contributions are also being used to offset excessive consumption, which is often caused by production slowdowns resulting from prolonged droughts. The energy balance of these units is in deficit, therefore income from sales and public transfers is essential to maintain the continuity of operation.