Universidad de Puerto Rico en Utuado launches unique sustainable agriculture degree to revitalize farming

In a recent government meeting, discussions centered on the critical state of agriculture in Puerto Rico, highlighting the need for sustainable practices to enhance productivity and food sovereignty. The meeting underscored the historical significance of agriculture in Puerto Rico, which has traditionally been a rural society. However, the shift towards industrialization since the mid-20th century has led to a significant decline in the agricultural workforce, dropping from over 240,000 in the late 1940s to just 178,000 by the mid-1950s.

This transition has contributed to a growing dependency on imported food, increasing vulnerability to food insecurity among Puerto Ricans. Recent statistics reveal that approximately 33.2% of the adult population experiences food insecurity, with 21.7% reporting reduced food intake due to economic constraints. The meeting also highlighted the aging demographic of farmers, with 41.5% over the age of 65 and an average age of 60.6 years. Alarmingly, only 4% of farm operators are under 35, raising concerns about the future of agricultural labor in the region.

To address these challenges, the University of Puerto Rico in Utuado has launched a unique Bachelor’s program in Sustainable Agriculture. This initiative aims to cultivate a new generation of farmers and agronomists, essential for revitalizing the agricultural sector and ensuring its resilience and competitiveness. The discussions at the meeting emphasized the urgent need for strategic planning and investment in sustainable agricultural practices to secure the future of food production in Puerto Rico.