Agroecological zoning of the Tandil department (Argentina): contributions for the management of ecosystem services

Abstract

The intensification of agricultural activity increases productivity and profitability while increasing environmental costs. The understanding of the problem demands a change of approach that promotes the sustainability of the environmental systems and the ecosystem services (SE) they provide. In this scenario, contributing to the knowledge of the environmental systems and the SE´s provided by the territories is a central concern in different areas of management. The aim of this study is to carry out an Agroecological Zoning (ZAE) of the Tandil department and identify the potential of each territorial unit to provide supply and regulation services. Through the use of a GIS, Agroecological Units (UAE's) were defined: homogeneous zones in terms of their main ecological and agricultural characteristics. The ZAE introduces a useful, transferable and necessary methodological basis for the development of sustainable agriculture that considers the potential and limitations for the provision of SE.