In the framework of the project Integration of Biodiversity in Mexican Agriculture (IKI IBA), on June 3rd, a local subsidy project was formalized with Farmers in Sustainable Axes AC (ASEAC), an organization formed by small corn producers of temporary project of the municipality of Apaseo el Grande, Guanajuato, with the objective of contributing to integrate biodiversity into agriculture, improve the quality of life of farmers, support food security, mitigate and adapt to climate change.

 

Photo: IKI IBA project. Creole corn produced with sustainable techniques in Guanajuato

 

The project seeks to consolidate the productive model of sustainable corn that has been promoted by this group of producers in the eastern region of the State of Guanajuato, Mexico, for more than 10 years. This model, implemented with the support and help of Dr. Alfonso Aguirre of the National Institute for Forestry, Agriculture and Livestock Research (INIFAP) Experimental Campus Celaya, uses five main areas: conservation tillage, soil nutrition, ecological pest management, selection of seeds and adequate storage of the selected seeds, which is of great relevance for being native maize. Prior to this change in the production model, farmers harvested around 300 to 500 kilograms of corn per hectare. Today they produce between 4 and 5 tons of corn per hectare without the use of agrochemicals.

 

Photo: IKI IBA project. Signing of the agreement with Guanajuato producers

 

Currently, these farmers recognize and disseminate the importance of sustainable soil management practices that respect biodiversity, and maintain healthy ecosystems in their environment for the success of their crops. With these productive models adapted to the local context, made by the local farmers themselves who directly receive the benefits, and which are sustainable with the planet, they contribute to food security, conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity as a new model to face climate change.

 

Photo: IKI IBA project. Group of producers with GIZ Mexico staff

 

The local subsidy project formalizes the collaboration of ASEAC with the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH and forms part of the International Climate Initiative (IKI) of the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU) of Germany.

 

Photo: IKI IBA project. Cornfield producers in Guanajuato