Rural development and extraction: production chain of green moss in the rural community of André do Mato Dentro, Santa Bárbara/MG

Abstract

This article brings to discussion the rural development from a social, economic and sustainable perspective in a rural community, based on extractivism. In this context, possibilities were found in André do Mato Dentro village, located in Santa Barbara - metropolitan region of Belo Horizonte / MG - analyzing the production chain of green moss (Syrrhopodon Spinulosus, popular name "Fofão"). This community is constantly threatened by the advance of large mining activities. This activities intimidate the socioeconomic, environmental and cultural aspects established by the population set in the Iron Quadrangle region, a region that is home to endemic biodiversity, special class streams, and different villagers’ settlements. The analysis of extractive activities intends to draft possible forms of an economic organization in André do Mato Dentro, so that they will be able to balance the commercialization of green moss and sustainable rural development without losing sight of the cultural appreciation of the community. Therefore, this article seeks to understand the dynamics of extractivism by means of preserving areas of moss collection.