The development of organic agriculture and agroecology in Latin America

The development of organic agriculture and agroecology in Latin America and the Caribbean is rooted in the work on agrobiodiversity and traditional agriculture and is fuelled by a reaction against industrial agriculture and the persistence of rural poverty, together with the opportunities provided by growing markets for organic products. A review of the coincidences and the differences between agroecology and organic agriculture is followed by an analysis of recent information regarding farming systems, organic guarantee systems, markets, institutions and policies. Finally, an account of the highlights on research, education and extension is followed by a short review of the status of the assessment of the performance of organic and agroecological farming systems. Emphasis is put on the main contributions of the region, particularly the development of the concept of agroecology, the establishment of group certification schemes and the growth of participatory guarantee systems, as well as the role of agroecology and organic agriculture in facilitating a strong vibrancy of rural areas.