Agroecology is a holistic and integrated approach that simultaneously applies ecological and social concepts and principles to the design and management of sustainable agriculture and food systems. The transition to agroecology can support the concurrent achievement of multiple sustainability objectives – economic, environmental, social, nutritional, health and cultural – holistically and in an integrated manner at different levels and scales. Furthermore, agroecology can be adapted to differing environmental and cultural contexts.

Women play a vital role in sustainable agrifood systems and in enhancing locally driven rural development. In this context, agroecology can support women to develop higher levels of autonomy by improving their knowledge, stimulating their economic engagement in local food chains and producer groups, and encouraging stronger involvement in community life. The empirical evidence from Europe1 shows that agroecology not only allows for more sustainable production of healthier food but also considerably improves farmers’ incomes. Equally, it carries the promise of re-enlarging productive agricultural (and related types of) employment and increasing the total income generated by the agricultural sector. Women’s participation is essential for agroecological transition as they are often responsible for household members’ food security, dietary diversity and health.