Revista de Ingeniería

revinge | eISSN 2011-0049 | ISSN 0121-4993

Arroz Blanquita: building communities and bringing opportunities and growth for small farmers

No. 47 (2018-07-01)
  • Johana Husserl
    1. Profesora asociada. Departamento de Ingeniería Civil y Ambiental. Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad de los Andes. Contacto: jhusserl@uniandes.edu.co
  • José Manuel Suso
    2. Gerente General de Arroz Blanquita. Contacto: jmsuso@gmail.com
https://doi.org/10.16924/revinge.47.5

Abstract

Arroz Blanquita has developed a business model that brings technological and economical support to small farmers, whereby the company commits to buying their entire harvest, providing financial stability to these farmers, who would, under other circumstances, face difficulties selling their product. It is a win-win: better quality rice that can be sold at higher price; less use of ago-chemicals, seeds, and water. These approaches are possible due to the availability of new technologies; today, crop and water management, harvesting, and grain processing are based on scientific knowledge, automation, and mechanics. This business model presents interesting opportunities for employment and wealth creation in communities affected by the conflict.

Keywords: rice, precision agriculture, small farmers, improved quality

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