Agroecology is a framework for farming and food system transformation that benefits people and nature.
At the farm level, agroecology means redesigning production systems to enhance further collaboration with nature. This is done by integrating biodiversity and ecological processes in food production; reducing external inputs; and introducing renewable or natural alternatives.
Practices that contribute towards creating agroecological farms include:
- crop-rotation;
- intercropping;
- varietal mixtures;
- organic fertilization;
- biological control of pests;
- integration of natural elements into or around agricultural fields;
- reduced or no-tillage to improve soil health;
- use of cover crops, green manure, agroforestry, and other diversified practices.
At the food system level, agroecology ensures the delivery of healthy, nutritious, affordable food through key interventions, including:
- improved connectivity between farmers and consumers with shorter supply chains;
- diversification of production systems and markets;
- increased fairness participation, particularly of smallholder farmers, indigenous people, and women.