Agroecology as an orienting concept

Structure Vlaamse Landmaatschappij
Target group
  • Advisors
Duration 2 x half day
Preamble The modernisation of the agricultural system and the food system has, on the one hand, resulted in sufficient food being produced for a low price. On the other hand, this process has been accompanied by many negative side-effects for the environment, for people in general and, specifically, for the farmer. Today a lot of research is devoted to developing technologies and practices that make better use of external resources (resource efficiency). Agroecological innovation is, on the other hand, devoted to reducing the dependence of the agricultural system and the food system on external resources, by means of the (re)integration of natural and social processes — an ecological systems approach. Agroecology states therefore very clearly that ecological and socio-economic problems are linked and that there must be a joint approach. This approach, however, means that the farmer must acquire different competencies and knowledge . In order promote the development of a more sustainable agricultural system in Flanders; the Vlaamse Landmaatschappij (Flemish Land Agency) (VLM) engages advisors who assist the farmer in managing his farming operation in a sustainable manner. This support concerns giving advice on agro-environmental measures, creating a healthy soil structure and soil fertility, the use of manure, and information on current legislation. Due to their close contact with the farmer, advisors can play an important role in the dissemination of agroecological knowledge and practical experience. In order exercise this role optimally, the advisors must first acquire certain knowledge and must develop the required competencies. The training courses described below are intended to contribute to this.
Principles of action The goal is to familiarise people with the concept of agroecology from different perspectives. To this end, a farming expert is engaged who can present the different perspectives based on scientific insight and the context within which the term has been created. It is not a question of a precise definition of the term, but rather of a guiding concept. After the presentation of the expert, small groups of advisors investigate in which way they encounter agroecology or aspects of it in their work situation. The other angle of approach is that of an agroecological farmer who has converted the concept into practice. By visiting the farmer, the advisors can observe the practices that are involved. During the visit, there is time allowed to examine these aspects critically in a group discussion. The training course must take into account the work situation of the advisors. Apart from some training courses on legislation, there is no further opportunity for training. The advisor is immediately put to work with another advisor (which in itself can be considered a training). It is necessary to take into account that the time provided for training and education is limited and it is necessary to ensure that the nature of the training course is practice-oriented. The term “agroecology” is not familiar to farmers and is often interpreted in different ways. The training course is focused on understanding agroecology as an approach to farming rather than as a new form of agriculture. In order to perceive agroecology as an approach, it is important that the advisor can reason critically, is able to observe and analyse, can be creative and can observe the farmer and his farm management with any prejudice. It is important furthermore to understand why a farmer does something in a certain way and to empathize with the farmer and his way of thinking. An additional problem is that the advisor must establish a relationship of trust with the farmer. This is not self-evident given that farmers often perceive (government) advisors as representatives of official controlling bodies. There are only a few agroecological farmers in Flanders where advisors are active. To date, they work almost exclusively with conventional farmers. This aspect is taken into account in the training course.
Phases in the training pathway - A theoretical presentation by a scientific expert (background, different dimensions: political, social, ecological, holistic and how this fits in within the issue of global hunger,). The presentation is followed by group discussions in small groups of participants and a plenary feedback of the results. - A site visit to an agroecological farmer. The farmer gives a guided tour of his farm. This is followed by a group discussion with prepared questions about the working methods of the farmer. The goal is to familiarise people with the concept of agroecology from different perspectives. To this end, a farming expert is engaged who can present the different perspectives based on scientific insight and the context within which the term has been created. It is not a question of a precise definition of the term, but rather of a guiding concept. After the presentation of the expert, small groups of advisors investigate in which way they encounter agroecology or aspects of it in their work situation. The other angle of approach is that of an agroecological farmer who has converted the concept into practice. By visiting the farmer, the advisors can observe the practices that are involved. During the visit, there is time allowed to examine these aspects critically in a group discussion.
Observed interest of the training process - There exist highly divergent interpretations and opinions concerning the term “agroecology” among the advisors (but also among experts, policy makers,…). They also admitted that farmers are not familiar with this concept and the term can better be avoided in order that no ‘friction’ is created between the advisor and the farmer. - The group discussions resulted in interesting exchanges. (Some) advisors experienced these discussions as congenial, promoting a critical consideration of their manner of working or of certain agricultural practices. - Advisors undervalue the role that they could play in communicating (agroecological) knowledge and practices.
Speakers Pierre Stassart, Ronny Aerts, Bavo Verwimp, Sylvie Fosselle
Contact email sylvie.fosselle@vlm.be

Location of the training session

Adress gulden-vlieslaan 72
Post code 1060
City Bruxelles
Country Belgium