Conservation Farming - The Basics Of Agro-ecology

Climate-smart agro-ecology includes proven, practical techniques such as mulching, intercropping and zero-tillage to promote sustainability.

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Agro-ecology increases agricultural productivity in an environmentally and socially sustainable way by using proven agricultural practices such as mulching, intercropping, zero-tillage, appropriate grazing practices, and wise water management. It improves a farmer’s ability to withstand climate change, reduces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and increases carbon storage on farmland.

Some experts say that in searching for more ecologically sound farming practices, scientists have disregarded a key factor in self-sufficient and sustaining agriculture: a deeper understanding of the nature of agro-ecosystems and how they function. Agro-ecology seeks to overcome this limitation.

Core principles of agro-ecology include the following:

Recycling nutrients and energy on the farm, rather than introducing external inputs;

Integrating cropping and livestock production;

Diversifying species and genetic resources;

Considering interactions and productivity across the agricultural system, rather than concentrating on individual species.