Rural areas of Latin America and the Caribbean are sliding into poverty after years of economic growth.

For the first time in many years, the regions are experiencing a historical reversal. The United Nations reported that this reversal affects nearly 59 million people. Roughly 41% of people living in extreme poverty within the region live in rural areas. Many of the individuals that leave Central America migrate from these territories.

“Irregular and insecure migration from the countryside is a social and politically priority,” Mr. Berdegué, FAO Regional Representative, explained, saying the solution lies in “turning rural territories into prosperous and socially cohesive places.”

Rural development is the key to sustainable development.

Sustainably managing natural resources is expected to reduce poverty and promote resilience against environment and economic changes. Increasing technology and creating greater protections for rural farmers will better manage agricultural risks.

“It is there that we find the roots of agro-industry – which drives scientific and technological innovation in the region – as well as thousands of family farmers that produce the majority of food for local consumption,” Mr. Berdeguéhe added.

Aldelano Solar Solutions offers remote communities robust, industrial-grade solar cold storage for crops. Crop preservation allows farmers to receive greater return on investment by ensuring foods can stay fresh for more days at the market and potential transportation across the nation.

While only 18% of the population of Latin America and the Caribbean live in rural areas, they are increasingly becoming areas of poverty. Improving infrastructure is critical to economic growth, but it will take time. Aldelano Solar Solutions has the power to offer farming communities the technology they need to improve processes, immediately. The Aldelano Solar ColdBox not only offers farmers greater food preservation, but its industrial grade capacity offers the ability to be used entrepreneurially. Owners have the ability to rent space to multiple growers or rent space to sellers at markets.

Solar technology offers rural communities technology for economic growth and sustainability.