Bridging the gap between the agroecological ideal and its implementation into practice. A review

Despite the increasingly widespread use of term agroecology by farmers, scientists, agrarian social movements, and lawmakers, definition concept is still object controversies. Current interpretations range widely, from fully transdisciplinary interdisciplinary definitions integrating ecological, socioeconomic, political dimensions agriculture, to more narrow as a discipline bridging ecology agronomy. No less importantly, few actors have developed criteria methodologies identify evaluate agroecological systems based on both ecological socioeconomic dimensions. The lack consistency in study application “agroecology,” resulting varying for absence standardized systems, problematic. It limits recognition associated benefits disadvantages different well identification drivers that favor implementation practices. While lessons learned individual case studies are valuable showcase potential agroecology, results not always relevant other contexts. Here, we review existing theoretical empirical literature. major points emerge following: (1) integrate six historical principles with seven propose an overarching framework recognizing oriented towards agroecology; (2) may vary greatly across spatial scales or governance contexts; (3) there numerous barriers farmers face their transition “ideal”—this highlights need improved transition, supportive policies scale up agroecology. two complementary methodological approaches presented our has help practitioners what extent system can be considered principles.