Trade-off analysis of agri-food systems for sustainable research and development

Abstract Tradeoff Analysis (TOA) is an approach to positive analysis that combines foresight and simulation modeling tools from the relevant disciplines, including economics, in a participatory process designed formulate evaluate forward-looking, strategic decisions under high levels of uncertainty complex systems. We motivate TOA with prototype framework for design evaluation public-good agricultural research sustainable development. discuss advantages over conventional economic analysis-Benefit-Cost Analysis-for development pathways. The remainder paper describes currently available their strengths limitations use TOA, illustrates recent applications cross-scale case studies. conclude discussion opportunities challenges priority setting management at global project levels, using CGIAR illustrate.