Conscious management in the search for less deforestation: the esg seeds being planted

Abstract

Despite the economic contributions provided by agricultural modernization, its ramifications included the prevalence of monoculture, the intensification of the consumption of non-renewable resources and the genetic manipulation of crops, culminating in an increase in agricultural productivity. The contemporary challenge faced by global agribusiness lies in the need to increase food production without exacerbating adverse environmental impacts, emphasizing the urgency of adopting more ecologically sustainable practices. The Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) paradigm assumes relevance, since companies operating in the agribusiness sector are the object of study regarding their actions related to environmental sustainability, social responsibility and governance. The study aims to analyze the ESG practices adopted by agribusiness companies listed on the São Paulo Stock Exchange (B3), with focus on environmental dimensions, identifying potential risks and the mitigation measures implemented. To this end, the study is characterized by a qualitative and quantitative approach, where a correlation analysis of the ESG score was carried out, as well as the main practices adopted by the companies studied were described. The study indicates that the companies that make up Iagro B3, for the most part, indicate a relative good or excellent performance in the adoption of good or excellent ESG practices, since the practices adopted by organizations present a positive correlation with the general ESG score.