Meryl Richards is an agroecologist supporting research on low-emissions agricultural development with the CGIAR Research Program on Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security (CCAFS). This research, one of four themes within the CCAFS program, investigates how smallholder farmers in developing countries can improve their livelihoods while reducing their impact on climate change. Her research experience and interests center around synergies and trade-offs between food security and environmental conservation in smallholder agriculture, as well as measurement of greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture. She has a particular interest in agroforestry systems and has conducted research in Central America and West Africa.