25.07.2023
How can we design agricultural systems to be both environmentally sustainable and support socio-economically equitable food production? This challenge exists at both the local and global levels. Agroecology has emerged as a promising approach to address the challenges for pursuing sustainable and resilient agricultural and food systems (agri-food systems). It involves studying and replicating relationships in ecosystems to develop productive and healthy agricultural practices. A recently published review by scientists from ZALF and ETH Zurich investigates to what extent agroecology can become the mainstream model for transforming agriculture toward more sustainable and resilient agri-food systems within the given economic and political context. The article shows that new technologies such as digitization and breeding can play a major role in successfully implementing agroecology on a large scale.
According to the authors, agroecological principles are a promising approach for sustainable and resilient agri-food systems. The article points to the demand for a concise definition that integrates various agroecological perspectives and principles. Research in this area needs to be stronger integrated into the broader food system concept to serve and reflect the interest of the various stakeholders in the agri-food system. Policies play a crucial role in supporting the adoption of agroecological practices, but more comprehensive and multi-level assessment and policy frameworks are required to allow often regional stakeholder to sustain in the global food market.
In concluding, the authors highlight the need for integrated and comprehensive approaches, together with the development of analytical frameworks, tools, and policy support. By addressing these challenges, agroecology can contribute significantly to the global transition towards sustainable and resilient agri-food systems.
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