THE SYSTEMIC APPROACH AND THE LIFE CYCLE OF MACAUBA LIQUOR

Abstract

The mechanistic model, based on linear thinking, has been producing an unsustainable, unhealthy and inhuman reality. The reassessment of production chains, in the light of systemic thinking, is urgent. Necessary are the understanding of the processes involved in the productive systems and the understanding of the interrelationships existing in them. Thus, the Life Cycle Assessment method presents itself as an effective technique to assess the environmental impacts caused by the system. Likewise, the context of the territory in which it is inserted must be considered. Therefore, this study sought to analyze the production of macaúba liquor in the territory of Serro (MG). The extractivism of macaúba (Acrocomia aculeata), a perennial palm tree in the region, is practiced in the territory, presenting potential for the creation, from the perspective of Systemic Design, of interconnected activities and the implementation of a macro-system. The analysis of the Life Cycle Inventory made it possible to observe a potential impact, related to global warming, linked to the emission of CO2 due to transport – although part of these emissions may be sequestered by the palm trees themselves. The problematic points observed can, however, be considered as 'levers for change', allowing the identification of new productive activities, generating work and income for the community.