Agroecological analysis of two modern paradigms

Abstract

This work reviews the contribution of agroecology to both conservation and development debate. From the ecological point of view, the misunderstanding notion of “pristiness” and “untamedeness” of natural habitats misled conservation efforts from the landscape level to the conservation units. On the other hand, developers are guided by a different, but not less fallacious, view that is biased towards the superiority of agricultural intensification compared to small scale agriculture. In Brazil the precocity of agriculture mechanization supported by the government during the 70s had catastrophic consequences to small farmers increasing rural and urban poverty. Through an agroecological perspective, both conservation and development are based in wrong concepts. Therefore, the study of agroecology, more specifically high diverse agroforestry systems, can help conserve biodiversity as well as make agricultural production in a more social responsible way.