Estrategias de emprendimiento sostenible de agroecología periurbana y seguridad alimentaria a partir de diagnósticos socioambientales. Estudio de caso: proyecto Terraza Verde en la localidad de Usme – Bogotá D.C.

Abstract

Sustainable ventures aim to generate a positive impact on the environment and society, while also being economically profitable for communities. This is the case of the La Esmeralda community, which, under a context of vulnerability as an informal settlement, seeks to develop strategies around agroecology to improve food security. Subsequently, the goal is to promote entrepreneurship initiatives that generate income and serve as a foundation for household economies. This process is supported by international cooperation from Switzerland, specifically the Skat Foundation, which provides resources and inputs for training and capacity-building. To develop these strategies, a qualitative methodology was applied through interviews with various stakeholders—both internal and external—who are connected to La Esmeralda: a community leader, a social manager from Skat Foundation, local residents participating in the project, and a representative from the Usme Local Mayor’s Office. Following this, a SWOT analysis and a problem prioritization matrix were conducted to diagnose the challenges hindering the successful development of entrepreneurship within the community. As for the results, two major strategies are proposed, derived both from the findings and from successful cases in contexts similar to that of La Esmeralda. The first is the creation of an agroecology association within the community, and the second is the development of community enterprises that produce value-added products derived from the crops they cultivate themselves.