It is argued here that agroecology - a science that provides
ecological principles for the design and management of sustainable and
resource-conserving agricultural systems - offers several advantages over
the conventional agronomic or agroindustrial approach. First, agroecology
relies on indigenous farming knowledge and selected modern technologies to
manage diversity, incorporate biological principles and resources into
farming systems, and intensify agricultural production. Second, it offers
the only practical way to restore agricultural lands that have been
degraded by conventional agronomic practices. Third, it provides for an
environmentally sound and affordable way for smallholders to intensify
production in marginal areas. Finally, it has the potential to reverse the
anti-peasant bias of strategies that emphasize purchased inputs as opposed
to the assets that small farmers already possess, such as their low
opportunity costs of labor.