In the sprawling landscapes of Brazil and Italy, two agricultural powerhouses, a quiet revolution is unfolding. Agroecology, a holistic approach to farming that prioritizes biodiversity, family farming, and food sovereignty, is challenging the status quo of modern agriculture. A recent study published in ‘Studia Ecologiae et Bioethicae’, translated as ‘Studies in Ecology and Bioethics’, led by Andre Augusto Michelato Ghizelini of the Federal University of Espírito Santo, delves into the historical formation and differences between the agroecological movements in these two countries.
Brazil and Italy, despite their geographical and cultural differences, share a common thread in their agricultural histories. However, the paths they have taken towards agroecology diverge significantly. In Brazil, the agroecological movement gained traction in the 1990s, driven largely by the efforts of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and family farmers. “The Brazilian agroecological movement has been a grassroots effort, with a strong emphasis on community engagement and social justice,” says Ghizelini. This movement has been a response to the environmental degradation and social inequities perpetuated by conventional agriculture.
In contrast, Italy’s journey into agroecology is more recent and scientifically driven. The movement gained momentum in 2015, with significant contributions from the scientific community. Italy’s approach to agroecology is deeply intertwined with its organic farming sector, which occupies 19.68% of the country’s agricultural land. This is a stark contrast to Brazil, where only 0.4% of agricultural land is dedicated to organic production—a difference of nearly 50 times.
The study highlights that 8.31% of Italian farms are organic, compared to a mere 1.28% in Brazil. This disparity underscores the different trajectories and priorities of the two countries. While Italy’s agroecological movement has flourished within the framework of organic farming, Brazil’s movement has preceded and, in some ways, paved the way for the institutionalization of organic agriculture.
The commercial impacts of these findings are profound. For the energy sector, agroecology presents both challenges and opportunities. On one hand, the shift towards agroecological practices could reduce the reliance on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, which are energy-intensive to produce. On the other hand, the transition to agroecological systems may require significant investment in education, infrastructure, and technology. The integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, into agroecological systems could further enhance sustainability and resilience.
The study’s findings suggest that the future of agroecology lies in a balanced approach that leverages the strengths of both Brazil and Italy. By fostering collaboration between grassroots movements and scientific research, and by integrating agroecological principles into existing agricultural practices, we can build more sustainable and resilient food systems. This could lead to a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, improved soil health, and enhanced biodiversity, all of which are crucial for mitigating climate change and ensuring food security.
As we look to the future, the lessons from Brazil and Italy offer valuable insights into the potential for agroecology to transform agriculture globally. The energy sector, in particular, has a pivotal role to play in this transformation. By supporting the transition to agroecological systems, the energy sector can help create a more sustainable and equitable future for all. The study published in ‘Studia Ecologiae et Bioethicae’ serves as a call to action, urging stakeholders to embrace agroecology as a pathway to a more sustainable and resilient world.