Recent crises, such as the pandemic, geopolitical conflicts, and rising energy prices, have highlighted the vulnerability of the food system. Decisions made thousands of kilometers away directly impact the supply and cost of everyday products.
In this context, Biziola considers it «increasingly important» to talk about food sovereignty, meaning «the capacity of peoples and communities to decide, organize, and develop their own food system». It's not just about producing food, but also about how it's produced, where it comes from, and its contribution to the territory.
The cooperative deems «essential to reduce external dependencies» in production systems. Productions based on local resources are more resilient and strengthen the regional economy, whereas the need to import feed, fertilizers, or energy from afar weakens the system.
The indicator system developed by Biziola and Goierri producers, through ten metrics, analyzes the sustainability, autonomy, and social contribution of agricultural projects, setting a course for the socio-ecological transition.
In the initial diagnostic phase, twenty agricultural projects in Goierri were analyzed. The results show a solid foundation for ecological transition, but also fundamental challenges: economic profitability, improving working conditions, increasing the availability of local raw materials, enhancing energy and packaging systems, and alleviating administrative burdens.
Among the strengths highlighted are the use of agroecological practices, animal welfare, project diversification, organic production (100% among vegetable growers), food processing with local raw materials, and direct sales.
Key challenges mentioned include dependence on organic feed and cereals (often from outside the region), difficulties in renting pastures, the continued use of plastic in packaging, high energy consumption, long working hours for producers, and bureaucracy.
Biziola emphasizes that food sovereignty is not solely the responsibility of producers. «Consumers also have a role to play», they state, reminding that each purchase allows us to support a system that prioritizes the local economy and environmental care.
To socialize the indicator system and foster collective reflection, Biziola has organized workshops, talks, and visits to producers from June to September.
