ABSTRACT

The growing global consensus on the importance of agroecology in meeting the Sustainable Development Goals can be explained by the many channels through which it can contribute not only to food security, but also to other development goals. Agroecology can guarantee to the local communities adequate nutrition through the provision of diversified, safe, and balanced diets. Agroecology can also improve the incomes of small-scale farmers, particularly in developing countries, by lowering the costs of production and improving resilience of farming systems against weather-related events, including those linked to climate change. Agroecology can significantly improve agricultural productivity where it has been lagging behind, and thus increase production where it needs most to be increased, while at the same time improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers and preserving ecosystems. Moreover, it would contribute to rural development and preserve the ability of succeeding generations to meet their own needs.