Generating credibility in participatory guarantee system (PGS): a study at PGS Sul de Minas, Brazil

Abstract

This work aimed to describe the control mechanisms of the Participatory Guarantee System in southern Minas Gerais, Brazil, and to analyze how the elements of social capital (trust and participation) help generate credibility in the system. Qualitative research was conducted through a case study in the PGS-Sul de Minas, using document analysis, participant observation, and a focus group as data collection techniques. Among the results, we found that farmers considered visits to farms the main social control mechanism for assessing organic compliance and are a space for participation and promotion of trust. That trust comes from historical contact between farmers and participation in social control activities. The control mechanisms used in the PGS-Sul de Minas, associated with participation and trust established among farmers have provided the credibility of this system.