Toward sustainable production chain by SWOT-AHP analysis: a case study of Fava d'anta (Dimorphandra gardneriana Tulasne) production chain

The extraction of nontimber forest products, an important tool in the conservation of forests and the generation of social benefits, is prominent in the economies of extractive communities. This article describes the production chain of fava d'anta (Dimorphandra gardneriana Tulasne) in two conservation areas of Chapada do Araripe, Northeast of Brazil, highlighting the socioeconomic profile of the collectors and the main conflicts in the extraction process of this resource. Participant observation and semistructured questionnaires were used to collect the information. Data were analyzed by SWOT-AHP, which ranked the main factors and subfactors that can affect the production chain. The extractivist family groups comprise individuals with low levels of education, and their economic base is dependent on the extractions of diverse (at least four) forest products. The fava d'anta chain presents difficulties regarding community organization, resource marketing and distribution, profit sharing among the stakeholders, conservation, and overexploitation of the species. On the other hand, the chain is effective in supporting the subsistence of collectors and the empowerment of minority groups. Obtaining the resource in distinct environments (forested, managed, and cultivated areas) allows extractivists to meet the market demand for the product while safeguarding the species in its natural environments. Collection of fava d'anta fruit in the region is important for extractivist communities and that, for the activity to be effective in promoting regional development, the organizational and institutional environment will need to be adjusted under constant monitoring.