What is agroecology?

Agroecology is defined as an ecological approach to agriculture that emphasizes the understanding of natural processes and ecosystems to design sustainable farming systems. This approach promotes biodiversity, soil health, and the use of natural resources in a way that enhances ecosystem services, such as pollination and nutrient cycling. Agroecology seeks to mimic natural ecological processes in agricultural practices, fostering resilience and sustainability while reducing reliance on synthetic inputs like fertilizers and pesticides.

By focusing on natural processes, agroecology supports methods such as crop rotation, intercropping, and agroforestry, which can enhance productivity and sustainability simultaneously. This holistic perspective not only aims to improve food production but also addresses environmental, social, and economic dimensions of farming, promoting food security and community wellbeing.

In contrast, an industrial approach to farming usually prioritizes large-scale production, often heavily reliant on chemical inputs and monoculture practices, while focusing only on crop yield neglects the ecological relationships that can enhance overall farm health. Practices revolving solely around livestock tend to limit the broader implications of agroecological principles by not integrating crop and livestock systems, which can potentially enhance soil fertility and reduce waste.