Biodiversity

Abstract

Agroecology fosters biodiversity and sustainability in farming practices worldwide: Francisco ‘Pacho’ Gangotena’s organic, mixed farm in Ecuador achieves high yields while sequestering carbon, protecting birds and selling direct to consumers. The Ortega family on the Bolivian Altiplano integrates traditional practices with innovations like biofertilizers and greenhouses. Farmers in Cochabamba, Bolivia, implement agroforestry, planting trees alongside crops to improve soil health and create a diverse ecosystem. Development organizations in West Africa promote integrated farming systems that combine tree crops (cashew, mango) with legumes (groundnuts, soy) to provide food security during the lean season and discourage bush fires. Belgian organic farmers Johan Hons and Vera Kuijpers cultivate forgotten vegetables like rhubarb, preserving biodiversity and creating a unique market niche.