Agroecological Aquaculture in Conservation Territories: Integrating Certification, Sustentainability and Local Production Networks

Objective: To examine the relationship between organic certification, legislation, and public policies in agroecological fish farming, highlighting challenges and opportunities for its implementation in protected areas, based on a doctoral study in western Paraná. Theoretical Framework: The study is based on agroecology, a political-scientific field that promotes sustainability, socio-environmental justice, and local knowledge. Agroecological fish farming differs from organic farming in that it integrates ecological, social, and cultural dimensions, going beyond technical criteria. Key references include Altieri (2002), Caporal and Costabeber (2002), and Gliessman (2018). Method: This paper uses a qualitative and interdisciplinary approach, integrating studies from a PhD in Fisheries Engineering. It combined documentary analysis (organic legislation and agroecology), a critical review of the literature on fish farming in conservation units, and empirical data from western Paraná. The results are articulated with agroecological principles and public policies for aquaculture Results and Discussion: The analysis of the studies identified three central axes: (1) challenges for organic certification in fish farming, such as scarcity of inputs and lack of specialized technical support; (2) the role of public policies, with emphasis on the National School Feeding Program (PNAE) and Paraná Mais Orgânico, which strengthen the agroecological transition, even though fish remain on the margins of these initiatives; and (3) the potential of agroecological fish farming, especially in family farming contexts. In western Paraná, the absence of Extractive Reserves and Sustainable Development Reserves limits the articulation between conservation and sustainable production, but the presence of Environmental Protection Areas and local production networks allows for the exploration of alternatives aligned with the principles of agroecology. Research Implications: The study identifies challenges and potential for agroecological fish farming, providing a basis for improving policies, certifications, and local networks. Its results can assist managers and producers in developing regional solutions. Originality/Value: By linking organic certification with agroecological principles in conservation territories, this study expands the understanding of sustainable alternatives in aquaculture. Its originality lies in bridging theory, legislation, empirical data, and public policies through applied research in a specific regional context with replicability potential for other territories.