Indigenous bioeconomy in Brazil: how to determine the local biomass potential in indigenous territories

The increased expansion of agricultural areas in central Brazil has been cited as a contributing factor to deforestation, soil degradation and water pollution. The impact of this expansion extends beyond the boundaries of the territory of the Xavante indigenous group. These protected areas have experienced a marked decline in available food resources and an unreliable energy supply. The term “indigenous bioeconomy” represents a holistic approach that aims to enhance the well-being of indigenous communities. It recognises indigenous knowledge and promotes the sustainable use of resources. The indigenous bioeconomy contributes to climate protection, by avoiding deforestation and replacing the use of fossil fuels in isolated areas with biogenic alternatives. This paper analyses the local biomass potential of a community within the Pimentel Barbosa Indigenous Territory of the Xavante ethnic group. Participatory research was employed to gain an in-depth understanding of the customary Xavante practices. The theoretical biomass potential was estimated at around 2700 tonnes per year (t/a), which is defined as the total amount of selected biomass types available in the investigated area. Local practical biomass potential considers the per capita consumption of this biomass by the indigenous population. Furthermore, the authors quantified the unused biomass potential, representing biomass that could be used for various purposes including food, medicine and energy. Biomass residues have an untapped potential of around 180 t/a. The paper outlines possible utilisation scenarios for these residues and considers the challenges associated with food and energy security in indigenous territories.