Analysis of the Value Chain of Vassoura from the Attalea funifera: Sustainability and Challenges

Abstract The economic and social development of piassava extraction can contribute to forest conservation in the Atlantic Forest, but a clear understanding of the activities that make up its value chain is essential. In view of this, we sought to analyze the activities that make up the value chain of broom from Attalea funifera , from extraction to marketing. The work is justified by the economic potential of the species, the conservation of the Atlantic Forest through extractive activities with Attalea funifera , and the low availability of research on the subject. The study followed a qualitative-quantitative approach with semi-structured interviews with representative groups of actors in the local value chain in the municipality of Ilhéus, concentrating the interviews with collectors, warehouses, traders, broom factories, public bodies and research institutions. The scarcity of labor and dissatisfaction with financial returns on rural properties compromise the continuity of piassava production, resulting in a reduction in supply and negatively impacting the lack of public policies in the sector. The organization of the actors involved in the chain is essential for optimizing logistics and distribution at a lower cost. Despite the high demand for the processed product, it is essential to carry out studies on the reuse of piassava fiber waste, adopt quality practices, implement government policies and improve the financial returns for those involved, with a view to the sustainable development of the value chain.