Southern Brazil's Organic Farmers: A Call for Solidarity and Support
Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil – The Southern Region of the Organic Brazil Institute (IBO) has issued an urgent appeal for solidarity and support for organic farmers in Rio Grande do Sul following catastrophic weather conditions. The Board of Directors and State Representatives are contacting the community to aid those affected by the recent excessive rainfall and subsequent heatwave.
In recent days, Rio Grande do Sul has faced unprecedented rainfall, with some areas recording up to 700 mm in a short span. This extreme weather has left a trail of destruction, particularly impacting the organic farming community. Nova Santa Rita, a city renowned for its production of organic vegetables, has seen its crops devastated. This city is home to Patrik, the IBO's representative for Rio Grande do Sul, whose farm exemplifies the widespread damage.
Patrik's organic garden, which supplies produce to the local market in Canoas, has been nearly obliterated. The heavy rains have destroyed most of the crops, and the remaining produce is quickly deteriorating due to a subsequent heatwave, with temperatures soaring to 33 degrees Celsius. The combination of high humidity and intense heat is accelerating the spoilage of the vegetables, creating an urgent risk of a food shortage in the region.
The images and videos accompanying this report vividly depict the extent of the damage, highlighting the severe impact on Patrik's garden and other farms in the area. The destruction of these crops threatens the livelihood of many families who depend on organic farming and poses a significant risk to the local food supply.
The IBO calls on the community, organizations, and individuals to stand in solidarity with these farmers. Immediate support is essential to help them recover from this disaster and to ensure that the region can continue to produce organic vegetables, a crucial source of income and nutrition for many.
The Southern Region of the Organic Brazil Institute urges everyone to contribute in any way possible to support the recovery efforts. Donations, volunteering, and spreading awareness are all critical steps in aiding the affected farmers and preventing a severe food shortage.