Since writing Absent Agroecology Aid: On UK Agricultural Development Assistance Since 2010 (pdf) with Michel Pimbert in 2018 lots has happened in this area of research. As I continued exploring the theme(s) it became clear that a slightly more comprehensive methodological framework was required for better understanding agroecology in design and evaluation. Essentially, how can you estimate funding flows to agroecology, unless you have a pretty good idea of what “agroecology” is, means and should be, in your view? In this commissioned report, for instance, I needed such an improved method: “Analysis of Funding Flows to Agroecology: The case of European Union monetary flows to the United Nations’ Rome-based agencies and the case of the Green Climate Fund“.
Later this year we will reach a milestone in the networking process that emerged through my conceptual/methodological reorientation, when “the tool” that I developed will be launched by the “Agroeology Coalition“, which has kindly embraced as part of the “Investments Working Group” and will provide a platform for it. So watch this space…!
Meanwhile, here is yet another brief to sustain the momentum for agroecology’s traction in the policy space, which I have co-authored with Jesse Donham, Ulrich Schmutz, and Alexander Wetzel: “How to value and fund agroecological transformation” (pdf):
Abstract: Agroecology aims to comprehensively transform food and farming systems, in all dimensions, from production to distribution and consumption, as well as governance. The aim is to achieve greater environmental and societal benefits, while reversing the negative effects caused by existing food systems. Yet an agroecological transformation requires ‘valuing’ agroecology and making available investments that strengthen innovative agroecological approaches, support new markets and help food system actors break free from current lock-ins. Therefore, funding agroecology is a fundamental step to enable the necessary transition. Thus, AE4EU has created a snapshot of agroecological funding. Quantitative data was collected via European online statistic platforms, whereas qualitative data was generated through questionnaires and interviews with stakeholders directly involved in practicing, funding, and implementing programmes on agroecology in various countries. Our research has shown that across Europe, good examples do exist to support agroecology. These can be used as models to be scaled out in other contexts. Crucially, it is necessary to create more accessible and effective funding for agroecology to reach ‘grassroots’ actors on the ground, that is, the growing agroecology movement, which includes many young people and new entrants into farming, as well as small-scale farmers more broadly. Therefore AE4EU suggests recommendations.