Paulo Rickly, Soy Farmer Cerrado (Maranhão)
“We—producers of soybeans and other grains in the Brazilian Cerrado region—are aware of the need to preserve the biome not only because of its great biodiversity, but also because the Cerrado is where the springs of the main watersheds in South America are born. The Cerrado´s vegetation is a "sponge" that absorbs rainwater and feeds the groundwater and aquifers that will give rise to rivers.
“In addition to other factors such as evapotranspiration, regulation of temperature gradients, wind barriers, among others, so this idea of payments for environmental services comes at a good time, as it will certainly help to keep most of these areas preserved.”
Cesare, Soy Farmer Cerrado (Maranhão)
“The movement for the preservation of the environment observed in Brazil should not only be an external pressure event, it is important to use tools such as payments for environmental services as an incentive. These payments express the worldwide commitment of all those involved in the food production chain to embrace sustainability.
The applicability of tools like financial mechanisms are mandatory to achieve preservation and maintenance of the environment.”
Gabriel Couto, Soy Farmer Cerrado (Maranhão)
“Preserving forests is one of the biggest challenges for developing countries like Brazil. We are aware of the importance of native vegetation to maintaining rainfall regimes, as forests control climate through evapotranspiration. Brazil's role in favor of the Amazon has been closely watched internationally and the country's reputation for agriculture will depend on maintaining high levels of production in an environmentally sustainable manner.
Thus, payments are a direct way to curb deforestation. For the farmer who is not yet aware of the global importance of forests, this incentive would give him a direct economic reason to contribute to the preservation of his reserves.”
Luiz Pradella, Soy Farmer Cerrado (Bahia)
“Payment for Environmental Services is recognition of the very few individuals that contribute to the good of all. We must socialize the benefit and the cost as well. Environmental services are for the planet, so the service provider (farmer) should be rewarded for it.”
Benildo Telles, Soy Farmer Cerrado (Mato Grosso)
“I believe it is possible to produce sustainably while preserving forests and soil, but receiving payments for environmental services is critical to that.”
Gisela Introvini, Soy Farmer Cerrado (Maranhão)
“In the region of Maranhão and Piauí, we (producers) use RTRS certification and believe that payment for environmental services is a great tool for valuing those who get high production results through the technologies and systems that make it possible to produce in the same space: meat, soy and corn—and still contribute to carbon storage. ”
Deomar, Soy Farmer Cerrado (Mato Grosso)
“Brazilian agriculture in the Cerrado regions carries very large burdens in relation to the maintenance of reserves. The farmer bears this cost for the benefit of the whole community, which receives benefits not only from the food production, but also from all the environmental services generated.
There is an urgent need for society to be aware of this issue and understand that such a burden should be shared amongst all, given the social benefits that preserving the environment brings.”