ABSTRACT
It is recognized that the interlinkages between society and the environment are more clearly defined than before and that the world needs approaches that cut across multiple fields of expertise to overcome future challenges (Davenport 2008; Marcu 2007). We suggest an interdisciplinary framework called ecoagriculture as a sustainable approach to managing landscapes designated for simultaneous biodiversity conservation, agricultural production, and livelihood improvement in local communities. Research has revealed positive impacts of integrated production and conservation systems on peasant communities in western Africa (Asaah et al. 2011). Examples include the feeling of empowerment from increased knowledge and success, recognition of a way out of poverty, improved nutrition, better health, and increased income.
