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Knowledge4Policy
KNOWLEDGE FOR POLICY

Supporting policy with scientific evidence

We mobilise people and resources to create, curate, make sense of and use knowledge to inform policymaking across Europe.

Publication | 2024

Drought and agroecology

When drought hits, it’s more than just dry soil—it’s crops failing, incomes dropping, and communities struggling. This document takes a close look at how agroecology is giving farmers practical tools to fight back. Through case studies from Algeria, Burkina Faso, Mali, Morocco, and Senegal, it shows how agroecology isn’t just about farming differently—it’s about farming smarter.

Agroecological practices like planting trees alongside crops, preserving soil moisture, and choosing drought-resistant varieties are making a real difference. These aren’t pie-in-the-sky ideas—they’re working on the ground, improving soil health, protecting water supplies, and even helping farmers earn more stable incomes.

The beauty of agroecology is its focus on the long game. It’s about building farms that don’t just survive a drought but thrive despite it. This isn’t just theory; it’s a practical, people-centered approach that’s helping communities tackle one of the toughest challenges they face.