Implementación de Buenas Prácticas Agrícolas para el mejoramiento de la productividad y la sostenibilidad en fincas bananeras del Ecuador: estudio de caso en la región costa

Abstract

Abstract: The present research work analyzes the implementation of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) in banana farms, specifically its object of study is a farm belonging to the company Terrafrutta S.A located at km 4 via la Esmeralda, with the purpose of improving productivity and sustainability of the sector. The study is based on evaluating the impact of the application of BPA regarding environmental impact, production efficiency, marketing and socioeconomic well-being. Through the application of field observation methods, technical sheets, analysis of production records and surveys of producers, the main challenges and benefits of GAP are determined. The results revealed a partial and uneven implementation of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) on the farms evaluated. While some farms show progress in practices such as defoliation, flower cutting, and input management, others present significant deficiencies in waste management, working conditions, and phytosanitary control. The moderate presence of diseases such as Black Sigatoka and pests like the black palm weevil was identified, as well as a high incidence of the nematode Meloidogyne spp., which compromises crop health and fruit quality. Furthermore, weaknesses were observed in basic infrastructure, such as rest areas and access to drinking water for workers. These findings highlight the need to strengthen technical capacity, standardize production processes, and improve sanitary and environmental conditions to ensure sustainable and competitive production.