Avocado or life: social perception of deforestation and land use change in a Purépecha community

Abstract

Avocado cultivation is the main agricultural activity in the state of Michoacán, which means that in economic terms, no other productive activity can compete with it, at least in the primary sector. The ideal region for the production of the fruit is known as the Purépecha Plateau, an area that until a few decades ago was mostly covered by temperate pine-oak forests. Avocado orchards have been advancing more and more rapidly, causing forest devastation and imposing new productive and social dynamics on local communities. In this paper we present results of a research project carried out in the Community of San Juan Pamatácuaro, Michoacán, highlighting the perception of various groups of residents about the problem, which reflects a clear understanding but with mixed feelings: guilt and helplessness due to the lack of organization, on the one hand, and genuine concern and will to change, on the other.