The Mari’ká Pharmacopoeia, a Biotec program in partnership with UFRRJ, aims to cultivate medicinal plants and produce natural and herbal products derived from them.
The Nossa Senhora do Amparo Farm, located in Caju, Maricá, will host the Mari’ká Pharmacopoeia, as well as the launch of the Ciamar Tilápias project.
The farm already has a greenhouse and two medicinal plant nurseries, including the cultivation of mushrooms with active properties to treat sleep disorders, depression and other diseases. All cultivation has been certified organic since the farm was acquired by Maricá City Hall.
In addition to the current spaces, Fazenda Nossa Senhora do Amparo will house three laboratories. The site will also be home to UFRRJ’s master’s degree course in agroecology, with classes starting in 2024. The possibility of installing UFRRJ’s Science and Technology campus on the farm is also being evaluated.
It is important to note that the facilities will occupy only 30% of the total area of 190 hectares, fully preserving the existing forest.
The name “Farmacopeia Mari’ká” has indigenous roots, “Mari’ká” being the indigenous name for the plant that gave rise to the word “Maricá”. This choice aims to highlight the indigenous identity that permeates the city’s history.
As for Ciamar Tilápias, it involves raising tilapia in large tanks on the same farm. The production of these tilapia will involve local labor and will promote the dissemination of technology to potential local entrepreneurs.
The aquaponics system, which integrates the production of fish and vegetables in a closed water recirculation cycle, will be implemented at Ciamar Tilápias. This approach optimizes production, is easy to manage and guarantees the maintenance of nutrient-rich water. This innovative project reinforces the city of Maricá’s commitment to sustainability, environmental preservation, and local economic development.
