AGROECOLOGIA E ECONOMIA SOLIDÁRIA NA ORGANIZAÇÃO DAS FEIRAS AGROECOLÓGICAS DO SEMIÁRIDO BAIANO

Abstract

This article discusses the experience of the Agroecological Fairs Network of Piemonte da Diamantina (REFAS Piemonte), located in the Brazilian semi-arid region, as an organizational model grounded in the articulation between agroecology and solidarity economy. Agroecological fairs are direct marketing spaces for food from family farming, free from pesticides and based on principles of social justice, economic viability, and environmental sustainability. The methodology is qualitative and exploratory, based on literature review and document analysis. The study highlights the relevance of social technologies, such as rainwater harvesting cisterns and productive backyards, for the feasibility of agroecological production in low-rainfall areas. Collective organization and self-management emerge as resistance strategies to the conventional capitalist model. REFAS Piemonte consolidates itself as a sustainable development alternative by creating autonomous and solidarity-based marketing channels, valuing traditional knowledge, and strengthening community ties. The implementation of mechanisms like the Solidarity Revolving Fund contributes to the financial sustainability of the network and reinforces the principles of solidarity and equity. It is concluded that REFAS represents a successful experience in promoting sustainable practices and is a replicable model in other semi-arid regions of Brazil.