SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF FAMILY FARMING IN SINOP-MT: THE ROLE OF COOPERATIVES AND SHORT MARKETING CHANNELS

Abstract

This article analyzes the contribution of the Family Farming Cooperative of Sinop, MT (COOPERAFS) to the sustainable development of its member farmers by strengthening short marketing channels. It is a qualitative, descriptive‑exploratory case study based on a semi‑structured interview conducted with the cooperative’s manager between March and May 2025. The data, examined through thematic analysis, covered the characterization of sales channels (street markets, PNAE, PAA, and partnerships with credit cooperatives), agro‑ecological practices, and regulatory, technological, and financial challenges, as well as socio‑economic outcomes. The findings indicate that COOPERAFS facilitates productive regularization, disseminates sustainable techniques such as no‑tillage and crop rotation, and increases rural income and employment by reducing dependence on intermediaries. The study concludes that the cooperative model, combined with public institutional procurement policies, constitutes an effective mechanism for integrating the economic, social, and environmental dimensions of family farming and can be replicated in similar contexts.