ENVIRONMENTAL CULTURE AS AN INTEGRATING AXIS OF THE TRAINING PROGRAM IN TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AND RURAL EXTENSION (ATER) FOR AGRARIAN REFORM SETTLEMENTS (PROFOR-EXT) OF THE UNESP CENTER IN SÃO JOSÉ DO RIO PRETO

Abstract

This article explores the main achievements and initiatives of the team at the São José do Rio Preto Unesp Center of the Technical Assistance and Rural Extension Training Program (ATER) for Agrarian Reform Settlements (PROFOR-EXT), from the perspective of "Environmental Culture." The analysis is based on a description of the program's activities and the offering of an extension course entitled: "Environmental Culture in the Caipira Territory: Fruit and Vegetables, Agroforestry, and Soil Health." It argues that these achievements are not mere technical or educational advances, but rather concrete manifestations of a developing "Environmental Culture" that values ​​traditional knowledge, promotes territorial economic solidarity, seeks adaptation to climate change, and aspires to the institutionalization of sustainable practices. The research and extension efforts at the São José do Rio Preto Unesp Center demonstrate a commitment to fostering a critical and transformative environmental consciousness, essential for sustainable rural development and the (re)existence of communities.