The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has recognized yerba mate cultivation in southern Brazil as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) on May 21, 2025. This designation highlights the sustainable agroforestry practices prevalent in the Araucaria forests of Paraná.
This traditional planting system, which dates back over five centuries, is celebrated for its sustainable forest management and the preservation of cultural continuity. It enhances biodiversity, bolsters food sovereignty, and reinforces cultural identity, all while conserving the endangered Araucaria forest.
Yerba mate cultivation supports over 100 plant species, promoting ecological balance and offering resources for human use. The commercialization of yerba mate, largely facilitated by cooperatives, provides employment in rural areas and integrates producers into regional and national value chains.