Da erva-mate ao território dos ervateiros: dinâmicas e territorialidades em São Mateus do Sul – PR

Abstract

The primary objective of this study is to understand the territorialization of yerba mate consumption in São Mateus do Sul-PR, through a multidimensional and relational approach. We have identified a gap in the geographic territorial approach to yerba mate, as existing research, primarily dissertations and theses, tend to focus on economic, socio-environmental, or cultural aspects. Therefore, we propose an analysis based on consumption. The focus lies on the territory and how individuals condition themselves, and are conditioned, in relation to yerba mate consumption. We recognize as subjects of the territory of yerba mate producers all those involved in the consumption of yerba mate, even if indirectly. The research utilized bibliographic and documentary analyses, old newspapers, images, indirect observations, questionnaires, and interviews. Yerba mate is a native plant found in some regions of Paraná and other states, initially consumed by indigenous peoples, then by the caboclos, with its consumption characteristics significantly altered by the arrival of immigrants, in this case, mainly Poles and Germans. We observed that certain symmetries, asymmetries, and territorial representations encourage the consumption and exploitation of yerba mate in the territory of the producers, highlighting here the steam navigation on the Iguaçu River, the Geographical Indication (GI) of yerba mate from São Mateus do Sul, as well as official territorial representations, in the case of the anthem and coat of arms, or by organized civil society, in the cases of Rua do Mathe, Chimarródromo, and the gourds. It was observed that the consumption of yerba mate within the territory of the mate producers primarily occurs through the traditional drink chimarrão, and that the influence of older individuals, as well as marketing strategies, emphasize this practice. Additionally, there is also an approach and emphasis on yerba mate producers who process yerba mate on their properties, an activity that was very common in the recent past but has now weakened.