A new report identifies research and development priorities for agroecology in Southeast Asia

A new report examined evidence and expert opinions on the impacts and future for agroecological transitions to climate-resilient, equitable and nourishing food systems in Southeast Asia. Diversification, through agroforestry, intercropping cereals with legumes and/or vegetables, and integrated rice-fish and crop-livestock systems, are all agroecological practices with positive impact. These are associated with most of the 13 principles of agroecology and also with higher economic returns and climate resilience. Integrating multiple agroecological practices and principles in local landscapes better address multiple challenges that smallholders face, compared to single practices or solutions, but there remains a need for greater evidence, especially related to synergies, costs and trade-offs.

While some agroecological principles are commonly studied, these are typically at farm level with little evidence on principles related to agroecosystem level (synergies, animal health and recycling) and food systems level (equity, connectivity and social values). There was also little emphasis on climate change, especially regarding climate change adaptation, mitigation and resilience outcomes. Future efforts should also better understand the impacts of agroecology on gender and social differences, and develop guidelines to support inclusion and equity. Addressing barriers and identifying behavioral determinants of agroecological adoption will help formulate successful technology transfer and adoption strategies. While there is no quantitative evidence that participatory approaches and co-creation of solutions achieve greater impacts, experts generally agree that inclusive participation and involvement of communities is critical for successful adoption of agroecological solutions, and to ensure that these align well with local priorities, constraints and opportunities. More transformative multistakeholder initiatives should be piloted, between farmers, researchers, the private sector and other stakeholders. National and regional networks can support knowledge exchange, collaboration, advocacy and driving the transition, and these should be sustained and expanded.

There is still far go for large scale agroecological transition in the region, with experts agreeing that only moderate progress has been made to date. Most literature studies came from Indonesia, Vietnam and Thailand, but experts agreed that the most agroecologically progressive countries are Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos, where efforts should continue to share experiences and lessons within the region and make them leading examples. However, other countries should not be left behind this opportunity to benefit from agroecological approaches and the potential to strengthen climate resilience. Financial and technical support will also be critical to raising local capacities, initiating action, and driving change.

For the full report, see:

World Vegetable Center. 2024. Agroecology for climate-resilient and nourishing food systems: A scoping study of priorities for research and development actions in Southeast Asia. Final report. Publication No. 24-1088. World Vegetable Center, Shanhua, Taiwan. 34pp.

This work was carried out with the aid of a grant from the International Development Research Centre, Ottawa, Canada. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of IDRC or its Board of Governors. Sincere acknowledgements are given to all the agroecology experts who shared their knowledge and perspectives during the preparation of this report.