Bolivian Farmers at a Crossroads: To Burn Land or Plant Trees?

Bolivian farmers face a critical decision between continuing slash-and-burn agriculture and planting trees amid escalating droughts. Last year’s wildfires devastated millions of hectares, contributing to significant carbon emissions and impacting food security. In light of the dire circumstances, innovative tree-planting efforts are being initiated to restore deforested areas.

Farmers in Bolivia are confronting a significant dilemma: whether to continue utilizing slash-and-burn methods for land clearance or to embrace tree planting in response to increasing drought conditions. Following the extensive wildfires that devastated approximately 10.7 million hectares of forest in the eastern lowlands last year, Bolivian farmers are in a precarious position that necessitates immediate action.

The catastrophic fires resulted in the destruction of forests the size of Portugal, caused at least four fatalities, and contributed to unprecedented levels of carbon emissions, as reported by the European Union’s climate monitor. The situation is aggravated by prolonged droughts linked to climate change, heightening the urgency for sustainable agricultural practices.

Julia Ortiz, a sesame grower, illustrates the dire circumstances faced by farmers; she experienced the chaotic aftermath of a fire she set for clearance. “It can happen to anybody. Most of us live off farming and we must do burns,” explained Ortiz, reflecting the common reliance on burning as a land-clearing technique.

Carmen Pena, a local villager, emphasizes the devastating impact of last year’s fires on food security. “I don’t know how we will survive because our food is running out,” lamented Pena, underscoring the risks of dependency on agricultural practices that could lead to further disasters.

Despite the adverse conditions, some farmers continue to ignite new blazes for crop cultivation, though the community is also launching significant reforestation efforts. A notable report detailed that a majority of land scorched in the previous fires was forested, indicating a continuing demand for farmland expansion.

David Cruz, an expert in climate change, criticized state measures that facilitate deforestation. He stated, “the state of abetting deforestation by pardoning people found responsible for starting fires,” illustrating a systemic issue affecting environmental protections.

According to Ortiz, the absence of farming machinery limits their options. “If we had tractors, we would not need to do burns,” she noted, highlighting the economic barrier that prevents the adoption of more sustainable practices.

In response to severe water shortages impacting agriculture, local women have initiated a tree-planting project using indigenous methods and innovative techniques. They employ “bombitas,” which are balls of earth filled with seeds of native trees, to restore deforested areas, with drones facilitating the distribution over extensive land.

Joaquin Sorioco, a farmer and forestry technician, underscored the ecological importance of this initiative. “Without forests, we will have no water,” he affirmed, hoping the planting efforts will enhance soil moisture retention.

The Flades foundation believes that the recent fires served as a catalyst for heightened awareness regarding the consequences of traditional land-clearing practices. Mario Rivera, the foundation’s director, commented, “We went through very difficult times; But in a way it helped create awareness,” indicating a potential shift towards more responsible farming methods that protect the environment.

In conclusion, Bolivian farmers are at a critical crossroads, balancing the immediate need for agricultural land against the long-term necessity of environmental sustainability. The devastating wildfires have prompted discussions about the viability of slash-and-burn practices in light of worsening climatic conditions. As farmers explore alternatives like tree planting, the situation underscores the urgency of finding sustainable agricultural solutions to preserve both livelihoods and the ecosystem.

Original Source: www.france24.com