There is a strong theoretical basis and empirical evidence that food security outcomes (availability, access, utilisation, stability) are as good or sometimes even better for agroecological systems than conventional alternatives.

This knowledge brief aims to provide a set of evidence, based on a large-scale analysis of scientific articles (including a literature review, meta-analysis and models). It focuses on the technical dimension of agroecology, especially the development of farming systems based on diversified crop-livestock-tree systems, mobilising a set of agricultural practices. In this sense, agroecology is opposed to mono-cropping systems and/or farming systems based on standardised practices and a high use of external inputs. First, we will analyse the impacts on food security and nutrition which is one key point of controversy regarding agroecology. Second, we will focus on two approaches with a high potential to increase food security and efficiently address environmental challenges. Third, a set of evidence will be analyzed for integrated soil health management and agroecological pest management. Fourth, we will analyse the contribution to other ecosystem services which are usually attributed to agroecology. And finally, socio-economic outcomes will be analyzed.