Chile (Freire): Promoting sustainable potato production with the Zero Footprint Potato project.
In the commune, 45 producers participated, who were part of a diagnostic process that allowed measuring the environmental footprint associated with the management of their crops.
45 producers participated in a diagnostic study aimed at reducing the environmental impact of pesticide use through personalized management plans and new technological tools.
In the Quepe sector, the community results of the Zero Footprint Potato project were presented. This initiative, developed in collaboration with INIA Tranapuente and seven municipalities in the La Araucanía region, including Freire, aims to evaluate the environmental impact of pesticide use in potato cultivation and promote more sustainable agricultural practices.
The 45 producers in the community participated in the assessment that measured the environmental footprint of their crops. Based on this data, each farmer will receive a personalized management plan to reduce their environmental impact and improve the sustainability of their production.
During the event, a mobile application was also introduced, which will be offered free of charge to producers. This tool will allow users to consult the environmental impact of various plant protection products used in potato cultivation, facilitating decisions for more responsible management.
In addition, as part of the project, three demonstration trials will be carried out in the field, one of them in Freire, which will evaluate management alternatives with less environmental impact, promoting cleaner and more efficient potato production.
Álvaro Marín, head of the Local Economic Development Unit (UDEL) of the Municipality of Freire, highlighted that the project is the result of the municipality’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the agricultural development of the commune. He noted that potato cultivation is fundamental both as a staple food for families and as a key activity for the rural family economy. He emphasized that the objective is to provide tools, knowledge, and new alternatives that improve crops, make them more sustainable, and strengthen local production.
The mayor of Freire praised the implementation of these initiatives, reaffirming the municipality’s commitment to clean and sustainable agriculture. He also promoted actions to improve the competitiveness of local producers and contribute to environmental protection.
Fuente: noticiasdelsur.cl
