How to value and fund agroecological transformation (Policy brief)

Agroecology aims to comprehensively transform food and farming systems, in all dimensions, from production to distribution and consumption, as well as governance. The aim is to achieve greater environmental and societal benefits, while reversing the negative effects caused by existing food systems. Yet an agroecological transformation requires ‘valuing’ agroecology and making available investments that strengthen innovative agroecological approaches, support new markets and help food system actors break free from current lock-ins. Therefore, funding agroecology is a fundamental step to enable the necessary transition.Thus, AE4EU has created a snapshot of agroecological funding. Quantitative data was collected via European online statistic platforms, whereas qualitative data was generated through questionnaires and interviews with stakeholders directly involved in practicing, funding, and implementing programmes on agroecology in various countries.Our research has shown that across Europe, good examples do exist to support agroecology. These can be used as models to be scaled out in other contexts. Crucially, it is necessary to create more accessible and effective funding for agroecology to reach ‘grassroots’ actors on the ground, that is, the growing agroecology movement, which includes many young people and new entrants into farming, as well as small-scale farmers more broadly. Therefore AE4EU suggests recommendations.