Agroecology as transdisciplinary, participatory and action-oriented
We perceive agroecology as an approach that seeks to integrate ecological science with other academic disciplines (e.g. agronomy, sociology, history, etc.) and knowledge systems (e.g. local, indigenous, etc.) to guide research and actions towards the sustainable transformation of our current agrifood system. This definition embodies a transdisciplinary-oriented agroecology, integrating different knowledge systems in a search for solutions to challenging current agrifood system issues. It also supports the notion that agroecology is an approach that expresses itself as a science, a practice and a social movement, and that it is most effective when these three dimensions coalesce. With a commitment to transdisciplinary and inclusive analysis, members of the ALC work with smallholder farmers, farmer organizations and cooperatives, non-governmental organizations, government agencies and companies to define research questions and then employ transparent processes for data collection and analysis, with the aim to support transformations and actions.
Further reading:
Méndez, V.E., C.M. Bacon, R. Cohen and S.R. Gliessman (Eds.) (2016) Agroecology: a transdisciplinary, participatory and action-oriented approach. Advances in Agroecology. CRC Press/Taylor and Francis.
Salvador, R.J. & V.E.Méndez (Guest Editors) (2015) New pathways to sustainability in agroecological systems. Elementa Forum. Elementa: science of the anthropocene 3: in progress.