Definition of Agroecology

• Agroecology is a scientific discipline that uses ecological theory to study, design, manage and evaluate agricultural systems that are productive but also resource conserving.
• Gliessman in 2000 defined agroecology as “the application of ecological concepts and principles to the design and management of sustainable farming systems”.

Importance of Agroecology:

a) An important feature of agroecology is its lack of dependency on petrochemicals and oil in the cultivation of plants.

b) Agroecology also promotes more efficient and less depleting uses of water and land than

industrial agriculture. Soil ecosystems are better preserved.

c) The principles of agroecology also add to the aesthetics and health of human environments.

d) The methods of agroecology invite participation by nonprofessionals as well as professionals in ideas and activities that are cognitively and emotionally rewarding to human beings.