What is agroecology? Main principles and benefits
Understand the meaning, principles, and benefits of agroecology, and find out how to learn all about it by volunteering in ecological projects.
7min
You've probably heard of agroecology, a more sustainable alternative to traditional agricultural systems. However, do you know exactly what is agroecology and what benefits it provides?
In this article, we will talk about agroecology in detail, so you can understand its meaning and fundamental principles. We will see how it is a viable alternative to face the challenges of modern agriculture, in addition to contributing to a more balanced and conscious future for our planet.
Furthermore, we will give tips on how to learn about agroecology in practice: those who want to get involved with this sustainable agricultural approach can have a very rich learning experience while collaborating with eco projects in different parts of the world.
You might also like to read:
- Sustainable living: An essential guide for taking action
- What are sustainable communities and how can you be part of one?
- Sustainable projects: examples and how to collaborate
What is agroecology?
According to the Oxford dictionary, agroecology is a part of ecology that studies artificial ecosystems established in agricultural areas. However, its practical meaning goes far beyond this definition.
Agroecology is a comprehensive concept that encompasses environmental, social, political, cultural, and ethical issues, aiming for sustainability in all these aspects.
This agricultural practice seeks balance within sustainable communities, prioritizing food production with minimal environmental impact, preserving natural resources such as rivers and forests, and respecting the natural rhythm of the land and the seasons. It also emphasizes the recovery and preservation of native seeds that have not undergone modification processes.
In essence, agroecology prioritizes an organic farming system, where the environment is the greatest ally and beneficiary. To achieve this goal, it integrates scientific knowledge and popular knowledge, honoring ancestral practices.
How agroecology emerged
Agroecology has its roots in agricultural movements and practices that emerged throughout the 20th century, but its essence is rooted in ancestral knowledge and practices of indigenous peoples and traditional communities around the world.
The concept of agroecology was created in Europe in the 1930s, emphasizing organic agriculture. In the 1970s, it gained momentum with a focus on sustainability and the interaction in the agricultural ecosystem.
Since then, it has been growing as a fundamental approach to promoting sustainable food production and environmental preservation.
The main principles of agroecology
- Promoting biodiversity: By cultivating a variety of crops and integrating elements of nature, such as trees and animals, agroecology contributes to the preservation of biodiversity, creating more balanced ecosystems.
- Nutrient recycling: Instead of relying on external chemicals, agroecology seeks to recycle nutrients through composting and other methods that enrich the soil in a natural way.
- Integration between the elements of the agricultural ecosystem: Agroecology seeks to imitate the natural processes of the ecosystem, integrating crops, animals, and elements of the environment in a harmonious way.
- Respecting natural cycles: Agroecological practice is based on the natural cycles of the environment, adapting to the seasons, rain cycles and other environmental characteristics to optimize production and avoid negative impacts on the ecosystem.
- Valuing traditional knowledge: Agroecology recognizes and values the traditional knowledge of local communities, who often have ancestral knowledge about sustainable agricultural practices adapted to local conditions.
- Environmental sustainability: Low environmental impact agriculture seeks to create agricultural systems that are environmentally sustainable, reducing dependence on non-renewable external resources and minimizing the generation of waste and pollution.
- Social equity: The agroecological approach also seeks to promote social equity, valuing the participation and involvement of rural communities, strengthening family farming, and promoting social justice in the countryside.
- Strengthening family farming: Agroecology values family farming as a basis for food security and the conservation of natural resources, thus providing sustainable means of subsistence.
Differences between agroecology and organic farming
When people wonder “what is agroecology”, they sometimes mistake it for the same thing as organic farming. However, while organic agriculture focuses on producing food without the use of pesticides and chemical additives, following specific standards to obtain a certification of organic practices, agroecology goes beyond food production itself.
It seeks a broader and more holistic approach, considering environmental, social, cultural, and economic aspects.
Agroecology emphasizes the integration between the elements of the agricultural ecosystem, values farmers' traditional knowledge and prioritizes the strengthening of family farming and the involvement of local communities in decision-making.
Why is agroecology so important?
Agroecology plays a highly important role in various spheres of society and in the environment. According to Greenpeace, some of the main reasons for the relevance of agroecology are:
Environmental sustainability
Agroecology promotes agricultural practices that respect the environment, avoiding the excessive use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers that can contaminate soil and water and affect biodiversity. It seeks to maintain the balance of agricultural ecosystems, reducing deforestation and environmental degradation.
Food safety
More diversified food production and the cultivation of local varieties adapted to the region's conditions contribute to ensuring healthy and nutritious food. This is due to the reduction of dependence on monocultures, increasing communities’ food security.
Health benefits
With ecologically based agricultural systems, agroecology reduces exposure to pesticides and chemicals that are harmful to our health, helping prevent diseases such as cancer and hormonal dysfunctions, in addition to produce food of a greater variety and quality.
Strengthening family farming
Agroecology values family farming, promoting the active participation of farmers in decisions about their practices. This strengthens the local economy, empowers farmers, and helps preserve the culture and traditional knowledge linked to the land.
Biodiversity conservation
By promoting the use of native seeds and crop diversification, agroecology contributes to the conservation of agricultural biodiversity and the preservation of native and traditional varieties of cultivated plants.
Social justice
Agroecology seeks to promote social equity, ensuring fair access to land, natural resources and means of production for family farmers and rural communities.
Volunteer and learn all about agroecology
Worldpackers is a work exchange platform that offers a unique opportunity for travelers to get involved with agroecology projects around the world.
By volunteering through Worldpackers, travelers have the chance to collaborate with ecological initiatives and find answers to all their questions about “what is agroecology” in practice.
The platform connects travelers to hosts who need help with their eco projects, whether in organic farms, permaculture projects, intentional communities, ecovillages, reforestation projects or other initiatives related to sustainability.
The benefits of traveling with Worldpackers are countless. In addition to contributing to agroecology initiatives and making a positive impact on the community, volunteers have the opportunity to have an authentic and immersive experience, getting to know different cultures and lifestyles.
This way of traveling also makes it possible to save on accommodation, as volunteers receive accommodation and some meals in exchange for their tasks. Since many projects are non-profits, a weekly, daily, or monthly fee might be charged to cover your basic expenses, but you usually won’t spend anything more while you’re there.
The tasks performed by volunteers in ecological projects vary according to the needs of each host. You can help with planting and harvesting food, maintaining vegetable gardens, building structures, conserving biodiversity, among other activities related to agroecology.
These experiences allow participants to learn a lot about sustainable practices and the importance of preserving the environment, by working in these systems with your own hands and exchanging knowledge with people who have experience in this field.
Feel like trying it out? See some of the opportunities to participate in agroecological volunteering through Worldpackers:
- Do you want to have an experience with agroecology in the middle of the Atlantic Forest in Brazil? Fazenda Morros Verdes is looking for volunteers to help in various sectors, from the management of agroforestry systems, organic gardens, distillation of essential oils and animal management (chickens, pigs, and bees).
“It was my first time volunteering and it was perfect! The work has always suited my capabilities. Furthermore, Bastião has so much knowledge to impart that it will always be a pleasure to work with him! Working hours have always been respected and leave plenty of time to enjoy the farm, as the place is a paradise! Everyone who works at the farm is super nice and attentive. The food is delicious, and the accommodation is very comfortable with everything you need. I would definitely go back one day to learn even more!”, said a French woman who volunteered there.
- In Brazil, you can also have an experience in agroecology in the south of the beautiful state of Bahia. At Sítio Véi Chico, you can collaborate by helping with cultivation and harvesting or with bioconstruction.
“It was incredible, the property is in the middle of the forest and Luciano has innovative and sustainable ideas. The place has many fruit and vegetables’ trees, as well as a lot of cocoa plants. All developed by agroecology. It's totally worth it, you’ll learn a lot!”, said a previous volunteer.
In Zitacuaro, Mexico, you can volunteer with agroecological work, aquaculture and permaculture while learning Spanish. This project involves feeding fish and learning about aquaculture production, harvesting plants, watering plants, selecting rural products, helping in the kitchen, and helping with ecotourism activities.
“It's been such an amazing opportunity to learn more about nature, sustainability and how the locals live. Emmanuel and Citlali don't live in the area, but they keep a great communication with the volunteer, the food is great, and the room is comfortable. I super recommend”, said Mariana, who volunteered there through Worldpackers.
Which one is your favorite? In addition to these, there are many other vacancies in ecological projects around the world. You can browse through them all here.
Volunteering is a unique opportunity to travel in a meaningful way, contributing to important causes, meeting like-minded people, and expanding your horizons. Create a profile for free in the Worldpackers community and start saving your favorite positions on your wish list!
You might also like these articles:
- How to support environmental projects around the world through volunteering
- Working on a farm: a guide on how and where to find opportunities
- 6 organic farm volunteer opportunities to apply for today
Be a host: If you share the vision of building a resilient, abundant future and believe in the power of volunteering, your journey starts here. Join Worldpackers as a host for free and be part of our community. Connect with committed volunteers ready to support your project, strengthen local communities, and create a positive, lasting impact on the world.
