Human Dimensions: Agroecology for Just and Sustainable Food Systems

Abstract

Agroecology has grown to be more inclusive in its definition since it first appeared in the scientific literature. From initial formulations as simply the application of ecological science to agricultural crops (Bensin 1930) to a much more expansive understanding as "the ecology of food systems" (Francis et al. 2003), the term's meaning has varied considerably across different places and times.Today, many agroecologists ascribe to the tripartite definition forwarded by Wezel and colleagues in 2009. Agroecology is simultaneously:1. a practice of environmentally friendly farming, 2. a scientific research discipline that examines ecological principles in the context of agroecosystems, and 3. a global social movement for just and sustainable food systems (Wezel et al. 2009). Ecological science remains fundamental to each of these components, but the modern definition also emphasizes the human dimensions of agroecology. This is only appropriate, as agriculture is an CONTRIBUTIONS

Evolution of conventional to diversified livestock production systems in the Mexican tropics

“…Agroecosystems are managed in an ecological and sustainable manner by promoting the interactions of plants, animals and the environment (Luliano et al, 2021). Management involves regulating energy flows, nutrient cycles and population mechanisms to optimize natural resources and minimize non-renewable inputs (Pretty, livestock-wildlife interface poses challenges in disease transmission between wild and domestic mammals (Ward et al, 2006).…”