Agroecology

Underpinned by scientific evidence and field experience in many parts of the world, agroecology emerges as a transformative approach for fostering agrifood systems that are socially responsible, economically profitable, and environmentally sustainable. By leveraging ecological principles and sustainable practices across more equitable value chains, it enhances productivity and fair returns for all actors of agri-food systems. As such, it offers a timely pathway to address pressing challenges, including the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss and environmental pollution. The rising number of countries that have joined the Coalition for Food Systems Transformation through Agroecology and the growing interest of private companies to adopt connected concepts like “regenerative agriculture” or “natural farming” demonstrates the significant traction that this agenda is gaining worldwide.

In the European Union, the Common Agricultural Policy has supported European farmers with stronger incentives for climate- and environment-friendly farming practices and approaches through the so-called eco-schemes and a stronger set of mandatory green requirements. Substantial investments were made into European research programmes (Horizon 2020 and Horizon Europe), paying significant attention to agroecology. More recently, the Communication on “A Vision for Agriculture and Food” (February 2025), building upon the report of the Strategic Dialogue on the Future of EU Agriculture, sets the stage for an “attractive, competitive, resilient, future-oriented and fair agri-food system that “is functioning within planetary boundaries”, and “where farming and the food sector contribute together to the EU’s climate objectives, while preserving healthy soils, clean water and air, and protecting and restoring Europe’s biodiversity”. This vision refers inter alia to “the growing organic sector and agroecological farming practices which prove to be attractive options for younger farmers, combining economic possibilities with environmental results and social responsibility”. 

Globally, we can integrate agroecology into our agrifood investments within the framework of the Global Gateway. By focusing on soil health, biodiversity, and efficient resource use, agroecology supports climate adaptation, mitigation, and resilient production systems, in line with EU’s climate and biodiversity goals while encouraging green practices in partner countries. Agroecology can contribute to fostering sustainable investments, such as solar-powered irrigation systems, improved access to organic and bio-fertilizers, fair markets for smallholder farmers, and green value chains. Its emphasis on co-creation and participation through collaborative research, multi-actor platforms, and community engagement supports the Global Gateway's focus on research, knowledge exchange and partnerships. 

Last but not least, agroecology is equally relevant in fragile and conflict-affected contexts, where communities are most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and where poverty and displacement are on the rise. In these settings, agroecology offers a means of resilience and recovery, providing a solid foundation for rebuilding sustainable and self-sufficient communities.

This Group on Agroecology results from a collaborative co-creation process as a response to a need for increased guidance. It aims to assist staff in EU delegations, geographical and thematic units, in better understanding agroecology and how it can be promoted and mainstreamed in consistency with EU strategies to build a sustainable future for people and the planet.