In western Paraguay fields that were once thick rain forests are now soybean plantations. The rows of soybeans stretch far into the distance, swaying hypnotically back and forth in the wind. This ocean of soy, though, is dotted with small islands--houses, actually, that belong to the subsistence campensinos who once eked out a living farming an array of crops like sugar, cotton, wheat, and maize. Now there is only one industrial harvest: soy. Soybeans are a major export crop in Paraguay, supplying feed and biofuels to the West. The price is corrosive: degraded environments and substandard living for local farmers. Reporter Charles Lane gives us a portrait of the impact of soybean cultivation in Paraguay, the world’s fastest growing producer of soybeans.

The Soundprint documentary series features the best work of top radio producers. The award winning documentaries are renowned for drawing the listener into the story with compelling interviews, authentic voices and rich sound. From memoirs to science, health and popular culture, Soundprint creates a powerful experience the listener will not soon forget. Here are some related Soundprint documentaries:

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