agroecología

Agroecology is an approach to designing and managing agricultural systems that applies ecological concepts and principles to food production. It treats farms as ecosystems and aims to optimize interactions among crops, animals, soil, water, and the surrounding landscape. The goal is productive, resilient farming that preserves soil fertility, biodiversity, and ecosystem services while reducing dependence on external inputs such as synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. As both a scientific discipline and a social movement, agroecology emphasizes the integration of ecological knowledge with local farmer experience and has a strong focus on equity, food sovereignty, and sustainable livelihoods.

Practices and methods commonly associated with agroecology include diversification through polycultures and intercropping, agroforestry, crop rotations, and soil organic matter management. It favors low-input or organic resources, water conservation, integrated pest management, and biological control. Seed diversity, knowledge sharing, and participatory approaches are also central. The framework promotes systems thinking to link farm productivity with landscape-scale biodiversity, ecosystem services, and community well-being, incorporating considerations of gender, culture, and local governance.

History and scope: The term agroecology gained prominence in the late 20th century, with influential proponents such as Miguel A. Altieri and various social movements including La Vía Campesina, and support from international bodies like the FAO. Agroecology is used as both a scientific framework and a practical set of farming practices aimed at transforming agricultural research, extension, and policy toward more sustainable and democratic food systems. Critics raise concerns about measurement, scalability, and economic viability, while supporters view it as a pathway to sustainable, just agriculture.