The adaptive capacities as a key feature in the promotion of resilient animal production systems
La adaptación como atributo esencial en el fomento de sistemas agropecuarios resilientes ante las perturbaciones
Résumé
Some theoretical concepts are discussed, regarding to the systemic and the adaptive capacities approaches of farming systems and their components. They are presented as essential attributes when looking for achieving the goals of overall resilience and farming systems’ sustainability. In the first part, with an applied and context-dynamic perspective, some hierarchical concepts and strategies of integration and adaptation are analyzed, leading to reduce the vulnerability of the systems. In the second part, three successful farming systems’ case studies (two from Mexico and one from Cuba) are described. The last to illustrate with real practical experiences, the integrated application of some of such theoretical concepts, practical strategies of intervention, and mechanisms of regulation that are previously discussed, and that would be orientated to promote the long-term adaptive capacities of the farming systems. The valorization of those mechanisms of regulation (homeostasis, teleophoresis) at all levels would build up the angular stone in the promotion of systems integrated themselves by robust components. Those systems components would be capable of reacting with sound adaptive responses when facing eventual, unpredictable internal and external disturbances, in the time and in the space. Meanwhile, with the application of such effective strategies, we would be in better conditions for helping to create a solid commitment between productivity and the objectives of rational use of natural and local resources. Finally, this change in the philosophy of the farming systems management would help to promote the required sustainability of farming systems, either from the economic, environmental and social standpoints.