Abstract
The artwork reflects on the mass cultivation of avocados, particularly in certain regions, which has generated significant impacts on the natural environment and local communities. Some of these effects include deforestation, loss of biodiversity, depletion of water resources, and alteration of ecosystems, radically transforming the territories.
Money doesn’t grow on trees, but avocados do (Green Gold) alludes to the significant commercial value of avocados in the global capitalist market. Avocado production has experienced exponential growth in recent years, driven by increasing demand and profitability. However, behind the facade of health and well-being associated with avocados lies a dark reality in Latin American regions where these fruits are cultivated. Latin America has emerged as a major player in avocado production, supplying a substantial portion of the global market. Countries like Mexico, Peru, and Chile have become renowned for their avocado plantations. However, this expansion has come at a high cost to the environment and local communities. The environmental impact of avocado farming is substantial. Large-scale monoculture plantations require extensive water, leading to excessive water extraction from local sources. This environmental issue severely affects water scarcity, ecosystems, and biodiversity. Moreover, converting land for avocado cultivation often results in deforestation, habitat destruction, and soil erosion. The social ramifications are equally concerning. Indigenous communities, who have long relied on the land for their sustenance and cultural heritage, are often marginalized and displaced to make way for avocado plantations. This uprooting disrupts their traditional way of life and exacerbates socio-economic inequalities. By juxtaposing the saying “money doesn’t grow on trees” with the lucrative nature of avocado farming, the artwork sheds light on the hidden costs and complexities behind this booming industry. It aims to provoke reflection and dialogue on the ethical and environmental implications of our consumption choices, urging us to consider the accurate price of the “green gold” avocados represent.