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  • Glossary item | Last updated: 11 Feb 2026
Agroecology

Not only the application of ecological principles to the design and management of sustainable food systems by harnessing natural processes, but also a social movement set to build locally relevant food systems, based on short marketing chains that support diverse forms of smallholder food production and family farming, food sovereignty, local knowledge, social justice, local identity and culture, and indigenous rights for seeds and breeds.

Agroecological and other innovative approaches - A report by the High-Level Panel of Experts on Food Security and Nutrition (HLPE-FSN), 2019 

Source category: EC Technical Documents


Agroecology is not only the application of ecological principles to the design and management of sustainable food systems by harnessing natural processes. It is also a social movement set to build locally relevant food systems based on short marketing chains that supports diverse forms of smallholder food production and family farming food sovereignty, local knowledge, social justice, local identity and culture, and indigenous rights for seeds and breeds.

Transforming food systems through agroecology: enhancing farmers' autonomy for a safe and just transition. Ceddia, M Graziano et al. The Lancet Planetary Health, Volume 8, Issue 11, e958 - e965 November 2024

Source category: Scientific & Technical Literature