Agroecological Models as Environmental Sustainability Alternative in Central Región of Cauca Valley, Colombia

Abstract

Changes in the land use to expand the agricultural frontier, such as the case of sugar cane monoculture in Valle del Cauca, have generated deforestation with loss of biodiversity, soil damage and impact on water flows. A comparative analysis on alternative agroecological models of peasant production was carried out to identify differences and similarities with the monoculture model related to three variables: water and soil quality and biodiversity. The study showed that agroecology has positive environmental impacts and can improve soil stability and sustainability. Agroecological systems can also be used as biodiversity corridors, food provision and to implement soil conservation practices helping this way to mitigate climate change in the agricultural sector.