Agroecology in the tropics: Achieving a balance between land use and preservation
- Univ. of California, Santa Cruz (United States)
Agroecology is the application of ecological concepts and principles to the design and management of sustainable agricultural systems. An agroecological approach to agriculture has special importance in the humid tropics where agricultural development and the preservation of tropical forests are most often in direct conflict. It is proposed that a more sustainable approach to development is needed, where agroecosystems depend on low external inputs, function more on the use of locally available and renewable resources, have benign impacts on the environment, and are based on the knowledge and culture of the local inhabitants. Examples of traditional agroecosystem management in Mesoamerica that can provide this basis are presented. The preservation of both biological and cultural diversity are integral to the long-term sustainable management of natural resources in the tropics.
- OSTI ID:
- 7120478
- Journal Information:
- Environmental Management; (United States), Journal Name: Environmental Management; (United States) Vol. 16:6; ISSN EMNGDC; ISSN 0364-152X
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
60 APPLIED LIFE SCIENCES
AGRICULTURE
CROPS
CULTIVATION TECHNIQUES
CULTURAL RESOURCES
DEFORESTATION
ECOSYSTEMS
GARDENING
HORTICULTURE
LAND RECLAMATION
LAND USE
MANAGEMENT
REGIONAL ANALYSIS
RENEWABLE RESOURCES
RESOURCE CONSERVATION
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
RESOURCES
TROPICAL REGIONS