Intereses y valores comunitarios detrás del biocomercio amazónico: estudio de caso en Napo, Ecuador

Abstract

Abstract: Framedby the theories of conflict and human needs, this research describes the system of interests, values, and capabilities behind the dispute between guayusa suppliers and buyers. Ilex guayusa is a native species from the Ecuadorian biodiversity linked to traditional knowledge. We found that the most imperative interests of producer communities are improving their economic situation with the sale of guayusa, reaffirming their identity as Kichwa nationality, maintaining and restoring their natural surroundings.The most emphasized collective interest is satisfying the community s needs of education, negotiation training, and autonomous management of their guayusa trading association. The most priced community values linked to the business of guayusa are tradition and belonging, which the community expects to maintain and revitalize with increased use of the Kichwa language, traditional knowledge transmission, enrichment of traditional diverse orchards, and rescue of popular festivities. These findings equip the guayusa trading association with strategic negotiation elements following the identity-based conflict resolution model.