Private sector investment and government subsidies which intend to expand and increase
food production further degrade the environment. Most of the commercial agro-industry
depends on the promotion and sale of genetically modified seeds, manufactured pesticides,
and fertilizers. This modern form of agriculture initiates a cycle of debt and dependence for
small-scale farmers [2]. In addition, the rapid degradation of fishing grounds, rainforests and
climactic changes are decreasing the self-sufficiency of small scale rural food production.
The subsequent breakdown in local food production disintegrates communities and traditional
livelihoods. Moreover, global studies show the importance of food as a catalyst for healthy
rural communities [3]