The new study, “The Role of Agroecology in Sustainable Intensification”, undertaken by the Organic Research Centre with the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust, was commissioned by the inter-agency Land Use Policy Group (LUPG) and funded by Scottish Natural Heritage and Natural Resources Wales.
The study found that agroecology – food production that makes the best use of nature’s goods and services while not damaging precious resources – can help maintain agricultural productivity. The researchers reviewed evidence for agro-ecological practices including processes that maintain closed cycles, using on-farm resources to limit inputs and reduce waste. They also studied the use of legumes (peas, beans, etc) for enhancing soil fertility, cover crops, minimum tillage, the use of beneficial insects to control pests and agroforestry.
Scottish Natural Heritage press release
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Notes for Editors
The Organic Research Centre based at Elm Farm near Newbury is the UK’s leading independent research centre dedicated to the development of sustainable food systems based on organic/agro-ecological principles. Further information on our activities can be found at www.organicresearchcentre.com
The Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust is a leading UK charity conducting conservation science to enhance the British countryside for public benefit. For over 80 years we have been researching and developing game and wildlife management techniques. We use our research to provide training and advice on how best to improve the biodiversity of the countryside.