agroekologia

Agroekologia, or agroecology, is an interdisciplinary approach to farming that studies ecological processes in agricultural systems and applies them to design sustainable, productive farms. It integrates agronomy, ecology, sociology, and economics to address food production, biodiversity, soil health, and livelihoods. While it shares concerns with organic farming, agroecology emphasizes ecological design, local knowledge, and participatory governance rather than a single production method.

Core principles include treating the farm as an ecosystem, maintaining soil fertility, conserving biodiversity, recycling nutrients, reducing external inputs, integrating crops and livestock, improving water management, and empowering farmers and communities. Practices are context-specific and aim to align production with ecological limits while supporting social equity.

Common methods include crop diversification, agroforestry, cover crops, composting and manure management, integrated pest management, rainwater harvesting, and participatory breeding and seed systems. The design of agroecosystems combines technical and social strategies to enhance resilience and reduce vulnerability to climate variability and market fluctuations.

Impact and adoption: agroecology seeks to increase yield stability, lower environmental footprint, and promote food sovereignty. It is supported by researchers, farmers, NGOs, and policy programs, with activity across regions in Latin America, Africa, Europe, and Asia. Critics point to potential yield gaps during transitions, the need for local capacity, and policy or market obstacles. Nevertheless, agroecology is often presented as a framework that links ecological integrity with social justice and sustainable rural development.