This article explores how agroecology contributes to achieving land degradation neutrality (LDN) under the UNCCD's Strategic Framework. Agroecological practices align with the five strategic objectives by improving ecosystems, combating desertification, enhancing community resilience, and supporting biodiversity and climate goals. It highlights agroecology's role in strengthening food systems, empowering local communities, and addressing drought through sustainable land management.  Below are the key takeaways from the brief;

• Agroecology contributes to the UNCCD goal of achieving land degradation neutrality (LDN) by providing guidance on practical implementation. The 13 principles of agroecology cover ecological, economic and socio-political aspects. These principles align well with the five strategic objectives of the UNCCD Strategic Framework. 

• Agroecological approaches improve the condition of affected ecosystems, combat desertification and land degradation. They have many overlaps with sustainable land management (SLM) practices as outlined in strategic objective 1.

• Diversifying agricultural production, reducing inputs, recycling and creating local value chains improve living conditions for affected populations (strategic objective 2). Fair management of land and natural resources, along with the participation of women, youth and indigenous peoples, strengthens local decision-making.

• In drought-affected areas (strategic objective 3), agroecology reduces exposure to drought by enhancing ecosystem health and diversity. Further, it reduces the vulnerability of the communities to the effects of drought through economic diversification and local value chains.

• With its holistic approach, agroecology offers global environmental benefits for climate change and biodiversity. It promotes an efficient use of financial resources, supporting the implementation of the three Rio Conventions (strategic objectives 4 and 5).