The advancement of soy in Mato Grosso Amazon: concern or development?

Abstract

Alta Floresta belongs to the northern region of the State of Mato Grosso, in the well-known
“Arch of Deforestation”. In less than 40 years, the municipality had more than 50% of native
vegetation converted into areas destined mainly for livestock. Recently, the implantation of
soybean crops has expanded in the region, replacing, above all, pasture areas. This work aims
to know the possible social and environmental impacts generated by the arrival of soybean monoculture.
It was held five interviews with persons carefully selected for their involvement with
the issue. The results point to environmental and social concerns. The expansion of soybeans
will increase public health spending, since the use of pesticides will cause water and soil contamination,
ultimately affecting the health of the population. We conclude that the conversion
of native forest into areas of agricultural use threatens not only the biodiversity but also the
essential services it provides to the human population.