UGPSA

The Uniting Gaspésie to grow the Future project, led by Yarha' Inc., aims to address the challenges of permaculture and ecological agronomy in Gaspésie, a region facing the dispersion of specialized resources and the isolation of rural developers. This project focuses on creating a collaborative network between local actors , in order to improve communication, mobilization and sharing of expertise.

 

By addressing issues such as the lack of skilled labor, difficulties accessing financing, barriers to market access, as well as the region's specific climate and logistical challenges, this project aims to strengthen the sustainability and effectiveness of sustainable agricultural initiatives in Gaspésie. The long-term objective is to transform these challenges into opportunities, highlighting Gaspésie as a land of innovation in agri-food, agro-forestry, and agri-tourism, and making the region more attractive to professionals and skilled workers.

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The challenges

Dispersion of specialized resources

Logistical difficulties related to the geographical extent of the Gaspé Peninsula and the lack of cohesion between specialized resources.

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Isolation of promoters

Feeling of isolation and lack of a support network for project promoters in rural areas.

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Lack of skilled labor

Difficulties in recruiting qualified personnel locally, often requiring the use of resources from large urban centers.

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Lack of funding

Difficulties in accessing adequate funding for sustainable development projects.

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Barriers to market access
Problems related to remoteness from major centers, affecting local producers' access to markets and distribution networks.

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Climate and environmental challenges

Problems specific to the climate and soil conditions of the Gaspé Peninsula, requiring adapted approaches to agriculture and permaculture.

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Lack of knowledge and training among local stakeholders

Need for increased training and awareness of permaculture and sustainable agricultural practices among certain local stakeholders.

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Logistical and infrastructural challenges

Complexity associated with setting up infrastructure adapted to permaculture, particularly in remote areas.

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Yarha' Inc.

Founded in 2017, Yarha’ Inc.’s mission is to help organizations with a positive social impact structure their needs, obtain financial support, and achieve sustainable success. Its actions cover key sectors such as education, health, environment, social entrepreneurship, and culture.

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Forêt2

Launched in 2022 in Paspébiac, Forêt2 is a learning and revitalization project led by Yarha’ Inc. The initiative aims to transform 25 hectares of land into a sustainable model of biodiversity and self-sufficiency, inspired by Sepp Holzer’s permaculture, Wendat knowledge, and contemporary practices in agroecology.

The challenges encountered throughout the project inspired the creation of UGPSA.

 

Government of Canada

The project is funded in part by the Government of Canada’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Funding Program, directly targeting the achievement of the following SDGs:

• SDG 2 – Zero Hunger: Strengthen food autonomy and short supply chains.

• SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth: Create local jobs and support the regional economy through agrifood, agroforestry, and agritourism.

• SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure: Develop infrastructures suited to permaculture and stimulate agricultural innovation.

• SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities: Strengthen the resilience and sustainability of rural communities.

• SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production: Promote sustainable and circular agricultural practices.

• SDG 13 – Climate Action: Encourage adaptation and the reduction of the carbon footprint.

• SDG 15 – Life on Land: Preserve biodiversity through agroecology.

• SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Mobilize local stakeholders around a shared vision of sustainable development.

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