Dealing with the uncertainties of changing climates is a challenge faced by farmers around the world. Near Cochabamba in Bolivia’s Andean high plateau, a group of agroecological farmers are leading the way by developing and sharing innovative practices that help their communities break out of the vicious cycle of increased poverty and vulnerability. But challenges remain…
Agro-ecology: beyond food
Some may view indigenous communities as being conservative and backwards. However, the Kabekwa in Costa Rica show that such communities can be adaptable and innovative. Read more
Youth and agriculture: new think-tanks for family farming
Three young authors associated with the Africa Family Farming Workshops write about the importance of creating a dialogue between family farmers, scientists and policy makers. The Africa Family Farming Workshops is an interdisciplinary, regional think-tank that facilitates innovative collaboration.
Ten qualities of family farming
Even in the International Year of Family Farming there is confusion about family farming. What is it, and what distinguishes it from entrepreneurial farming or family agribusiness? Read more
La Durette, a pilot agroecological farm
La Durette is a pilot farm in agroecology located in Avignon, France. Its aim is to set up innovative mediterranean agricultural systems, mixing crops under agroforestry in various designs – mainly fruits and vegetables, and integrating animals into the systems.
“We need to support what farmers are already doing”
Interview with Medius Bihunirwa, head of the Farmer Enterprise Development Unit at Kabarole Research and Resource Centre (KRC), Uganda. Medius works with smallholder farmers, enhancing the quality of their produce and improving their access to markets. Read more
A new tool for improving organic cotton yields in Africa
A report on studies into the development of a novel pest management tool for organic cotton undertaken by PAN UK and their partners in Benin, West Africa, between 2006 and 2008. This food spray product can be used alongside other biological tools to attract, conserve and utilize beneficial insects. Read more
Seeking convergence on agroecology- a conference impression
Whoever thought that agroecology is only gaining momentum as an agricultural practice, science and movement in Latin America, is wrong. A two day conference in June 2013 clearly depicted the richness of agroecology in Europe- as well as the challenges and opportunities. Read more
Entrevista a Norman Uphoff
Entre 1990 y 2005, Norman Uphoff, profesor emérito de Gobierno y de Agricultura Internacional en la Universidad de Cornell, se desempeñó como director del Instituto Internacional de Cornell para la Alimentación, la Agricultura y el Desarrollo Read more
¿Loco? ¡De ninguna manera!
Aunque difícilmente se alcanza lo suficiente para satisfacer la demanda nacional, la producción de arroz en el Perú es alta, lo que refleja un sistema de producción aparentemente eficiente. Read more