Agroecology Principles, Practices and their Impact on Sustainable Food Systems
Somashekar K S
AICRP on Sunflower, UAS, GKVK, Bangalore-65, India.
G J Abhishek
Division of Plant Genetic Resources, IARI, India.
Vikas Kumar *
Department of Agriculture, Vivekananda Global University, Jaipur Rajasthan - 303012, India and State Medicinal Plant Board, AYUSH Society, Bihar Medical Services and Infrastructure Corporation Limited (BMSICL), Swasth Bhawan, Sheikhpura, Patna - 800014, India.
Anjali Tiwari
Department of Silviculture & Agroforestry, College of Horticulture & Forestry, Acharya Narendra Deva Agriculture and Technology (ANDUAT), Kumarganj, Ayodhya, U.P. -224229, India.
Tanu Shree Lakra
Faculty of Forestry, Birsa Agricultural University, Ranchi, Jharkhand 834006, India.
Sangeeta
Department of Home Science, Food and Nutrition, Ramabai Govt Women P.G College, Akbarpur, Ambedkarnagar, India.
ManishKapoor
Department of Botany, Punjabi University Patiala -147002 Punjab, India.
Bharti Chauhan
RSM PG College, Dhampur, Bijnor-UP 246761, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Agroecology offers a comprehensive approach to sustainable agriculture by integrating ecological principles with socioeconomic considerations to improve the resilience and productivity of food systems. This review delves into the core principles of agroecology, including biodiversity, ecosystem services, social equity and explores various practices such as crop diversification, soil health management and integrated pest management. The environmental, economic and social impacts of these practices are examined to highlight their contributions to sustainable food systems. Case studies from different regions demonstrate the successful application of agroecological methods and their benefits for local communities. Additionally, the review discusses the importance of policy and institutional support in promoting agroecology, underscoring the need for enabling policies, educational initiatives and research efforts. Despite its many advantages, agroecology faces obstacles, such as limited awareness, resource constraints and policy hurdles. The review concludes with recommendations for overcoming these challenges and identifies future research opportunities to advance agroecology. By synthesizing current knowledge and outlining key areas for further study, this review provides a detailed understanding of agroecology’s potential to transform agricultural practices toward sustainability, offering valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners and researchers alike.
Keywords: Agroecology, sustainable agriculture, biodiversity, ecosystem services, food sovereignty, integrated, pest management