6/24/10 (LWN) An international seminar on agroecological farming recently took place in Brussels, according to the U.N. A number of experts contributed to the meeting, taking into account agroecology efforts in Brazil, Cuba, Malawi, Tanzania, and other nations.

Rather than emphasizing the use of chemicals and pesticides, agroecological farming involves such measures as using live predators to eliminate pests, and growing trees in the same area as crops. It causes less deforestation and creates fewer emissions.

A large study involving nearly three-hundred agroecological farming projects was referenced at the seminar. It found that these techniques improve crop output by almost four-fifths, on average. They also increase the earnings of farmers and help prevent desertification.

An official from the U.N. Human Rights Council was quoted as saying that agroecology is "the best option we have today". He called for its application on a national basis, pointing out that such practices can help address both malnutrition and environmental problems.

Agroecology has some similarities to organic farming. Both avoid use of chemical-based fertilizers and pesticides, instead seeking to solve problems through natural means. Organic farming also applies to livestock, whereas agroecology puts more emphasis on trees.