Agroecology and Organic Farming Systems

Agroecology has developed to face important challenges of food and agricultural systems in the 21st century. It represents a paradigm shift both at farming and socio-economical level, paving the way for the systemic transition towards sustainable farming, resilient equitable and multifunctional rural systems. The horticultural sector can take significant advantage by adopting agroecological strategies, methodologies and tools available, to move towards decreased inputs but highly knowledge-intensive farming systems. Diversification, soil health, reduction of inputs and emissions to environment, optimal natural resource management through recycling but also participatory and co-creation approaches, fairness, connectivity and synergy are some of the elements and principles to consider. This involves all actors in the horticultural value chain.
Commission Agroecology and Organic Farming Systems (CMOR) is dedicated to bringing together research, teaching, dissemination and scaling of the multiple aspects related to agroecology for sustainability, food sovereignty and socio-ecological resilience to climate change. As such, it builds on the work developed in three Working Groups: Organic Tropical and Subtropical Fruits, Organic Vegetables, and Organic Temperate Fruits. Beyond these groups, and considering that agroecology is a transdisciplinary science, this Commission relates transversally with the rest of the ISHS Divisions.
CMOR aims to promote scientific knowledge worldwide in the following areas:

• Applied agroecological approaches in horticultural production systems to enhance resilience, sustainability, and food security and sovereignty,
• Development of participatory agroecological strategies in horticultural research, education, training, agricultural knowledge, breeding, and natural resource management,
• Management and utilization of biodiversity in horticultural production systems to boost sustainability and resilience,
• Development of horticultural plant genetic resources (PGRs) tailored for low-input, organic, and agroecological farming systems,
• Creation of agroecological infrastructure to promote diversification and strengthen ecosystem services within horticultural crop agroecosystems,
• Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption in horticultural production systems,
• Innovative strategies to enhance carbon sequestration potential and improve resilience to climate-related stresses.

Different symposia are typically organized at four-year intervals, offering excellent opportunities for researchers from around the world to present their work, learn about others’ research, network, exchange ideas, build collaborations, and visit growing regions in various parts of the globe. These events are particularly valuable for new researchers, providing them with a deeper understanding for developing sustainable horticulture and agriculture. One of the challenges for this Commission in the coming years will be to engage farmers, students, and social organizations interested in agroecology and encourage their participation in symposia.