Principles and Applications of Agroecology: A Review
Dushyant
Department of Agronomy, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Krashanakant Sharma *
Department of Agronomy, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Shalini Roy
Department of Agronomy, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Km. Rooma
Department of Horticulture, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, India.
Nisha Mahan
Department of Agronomy, Bundelkhand University Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Praveen Kumar
Department of Agronomy, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Manish Kumar
Department of Vegetable Science, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Sudhir Kumar Singh
Department of Soil Science, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Brijesh Kumar
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Arshad Hussain
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Sujal
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Agroecology is a holistic approach to agriculture that combines ecological principles with farming systems. Its primary goal is to create sustainable, resilient, and productive agricultural ecosystems. In this review, we will explore the fundamental ideas and various applications of agroecology. We will delve into the biological components of agricultural landscapes, focusing on natural pest control, biodiversity, and nutrient cycling. Furthermore, we will showcase successful case studies from different regions, demonstrating how agroecology benefits smallholder farmers, food security, and climate resilience. However, we will also address obstacles to its widespread adoption, such as technological and regulatory challenges. Additionally, we will examine the environmental impacts of agroecology compared to traditional agriculture, emphasizing how it promotes soil health, conserves biodiversity, and mitigates climate change. Taking into account its social and economic aspects, we will underscore the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge while highlighting the economic feasibility of agroecology and its empowering effects on local communities. The review will conclude by emphasizing the need for scalable techniques, improved research, and supportive policies to fully integrate agroecology into mainstream agricultural practices, thereby creating a resilient and sustainable agricultural environment. We will also propose potential pathways towards achieving this goal.
Keywords: Agroecology, biodiversity, nutrient cycling, climate change, sustainable agriculture