Introduction

In various parts of the world, agriculture is facing several challenges (soil degradation, loss of biodiversity, climate change, rural poverty, dependence on chemical inputs, etc.) that are holding back sustainable development. Agroecology has emerged as a promising alternative that aims to reconcile agricultural production with respect for the environment. 

I- Definition and principles of agroecology

Agroecology is the practice of farming using nature and ecosystems to their full potential and drawing inspiration from them in order to produce food with minimum impact on the environment. It makes it possible to manage water intelligently and avoid the use of plant protection products and excessive tillage of the soil. 

Agroecology deals with farming practices, the landscape and the philosophy of life that goes with them:  

• Enhancing local resources and knowledge: using available natural resources (water, soil, plants or animals) and managing them sustainably. Make use of traditional knowledge, farmers’ innovations and the sharing of knowledge between stakeholders.
• Diversifying production systems: promoting the diversity of species grown and reared, and combining different agricultural activities (cultivation, rearing, fishing or bee-keeping). Use of a range of practices (intercropping, crop rotation, agroforestry or hedgerows) to exploit the beneficial interactions between living organisms.
• Reducing external inputs: limiting the use of agrochemical inputs (synthetic fertilisers, pesticides), which can have negative effects on human and environmental health. Favour natural methods of soil fertilisation (composting).
• Political and social participation: active involvement of the players in the food system (producers, processors, intermediaries, consumers, researchers, decision-makers) in a process of co-construction of knowledge and dialogue. Recognition of the central role of women in agriculture and reinforcement of their rights and autonomy.

II- The benefits of agroecology for agriculture 

Agroecology offers a range of benefits to agriculture:

• Improving food security: increasing yields and the quality of production by optimising the use of natural resources, and by strengthening resilience in the face of climatic hazards. Food diversification and improved nutrition.
• Reducing poverty and inequality: reducing production costs and increasing farmers’ incomes by giving them access to different markets. Empowerment and emancipation of small-scale producers (women, young people) by offering them employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.
• Protecting the environment and climate: Preserving biodiversity, soil, water and forests by limiting pollution and deforestation. Carbon storage in soils and plant biomass, helping to mitigate climate change.

Conclusion

Agroecology is therefore a solution for agriculture and for society. It involves transforming food systems, which requires political, technical and financial support, as well as raising awareness and mobilising stakeholders. It is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations in 2015.