OOS 42

Putting Agroecology to Work: From Science to Practice and Policy

Agroecology integrates the relationships among ecosystems, our economy, and society to address the needs of people and the planet today and in the future. The scope of agroecological research continues to grow and evolve as scientists, farmers, ranchers, policy makers, and others identify solutions to environmental and agricultural challenges, but run up against social and economic barriers. As we move into the next centennial, science suggests that cutting-edge agroecological research will continue to be a critical source of solutions to problems related to climate change, ecosystem services, biodiversity conservation, population growth, and food security. For example, agroecological practices can help us to grow the food that we need in the face of a burgeoning population in conjunction with increasing drought, flooding, and temperature extremes. It is noteworthy that agroecological research has demonstrated great promise despite being significantly underfunded and maintaining a low profile; private investment unsurprisingly tends to go towards research leading to economic returns (seeds, chemicals, services) while institutions capable of conducting high risk research in the public interest have experienced significant budget cuts (typically government research programs and public agricultural research institutions). Considering both the constraints and potential, it is clear that the long-term success of agroecological solutions will rely heavily on the transfer of scientific research into practice via continued - and ideally enhanced - public support; engagement with farmers, ranchers, and land managers; and implementation of effective practices and policies. The objective of this session is to bring together a range of ecologists, policy advocates, and other stakeholders to share knowledge and ideas that can help to pave the way towards a sustainable future. The session will feature both established and early-career scientists working in urban and rural, and national and international environments. Compelling new research will highlight working models for collaborative and solutions-oriented agroecological research. Case studies will be used as a platform to discuss obstacles related to this genre of research, including available funding sources, cultural constraints, and existing policies that are prohibiting the expansion of agroecological practices. The session will be moderated to ensure that each talk speaks to both the challenges and opportunities in expanding agroecological research and practice.