Agroecology Europe

Introduction

AEEU aims to analyse, design, develop and promote the transition towards agroecology-based farming and food systems in Europe and throughout the world. It intends to place agroecology high on the EU agenda of sustainable development of farming and food systems.

Objectives

It intends to foster interactions between actors in science, practice, and social movements by facilitating knowledge sharing and action. It aims at the creation of an inclusive European community of professionals, practitioners, and citizens engaged in agroecology.

Understanding Agroecology

Agroecology is considered jointly as a science, a practice, and a social movement. It encompasses the whole food system from the soil to the organization of human societies. It is value-laden and based on core principles.

As a Science

• It gives priority to action research.
• It employs holistic and participatory approaches.
• It includes transdisciplinary research that is inclusive of different knowledge systems.

As a Practice

• It is based on sustainable use of local renewable resources.
• It incorporates local farmers’ knowledge and priorities.
• It emphasizes the wise use of biodiversity to provide ecosystem services and resilience.
• It seeks solutions that create multiple benefits (environmental, economic, social) from local to global.

As a Movement

• It defends smallholders and family farming.
• It supports farmers and rural communities.
• It advocates for food sovereignty.
• It promotes local and short food supply chains.
• It values the diversity of indigenous seeds and breeds.
• It emphasizes healthy and quality food.

Paradigm Shift

Agroecology represents an opportunity for a paradigm shift in the agricultural and food systems sectors by promoting knowledge, practices, and benefits as a sustainable solution.

Within this paradigm, the core of the agricultural activity is no longer to use inputs to produce outputs, but rather to better valorise ecological processes and ecosystem services within agroecosystems and to ensure their long-term functionality.