Roleplaying Agroecology

DISCLAIMER: While the following examples are based on real events, some creative liberties were taken to imagine long-term outcomes and alternative scenarios. There is no one answer for how to practice agroecology.

A) Continue life as normal: The first few years, everything goes well. But native trees have continued disappearing due to deforestation and climate change. You feel sad that your grandchildren can’t remember what a wild raisin is, even though they used to be everywhere in the forests. On top of that, your crops haven't been producing as well as usual. Without the ecosystem services — including water and soil improvement — from the trees, you will have to spend more on fertilizer for the farm.

B) Plant a community food forest: It is hard work to start a community food forest. it requires a lot of planning and negotiations with your neighbours. However, a few years down the road you begin to see the benefits of your labour. The native trees that your community uses for food and traditional medicine are thriving. In addition, you are making money selling the forest fruits and vegetables and eat a well-balanced diet because of all the micronutrients in the tree-foods.

A) Restrict or ban artificial fertilizers: Many people are unhappy with your decision; they worry the change will mean smaller harvests and create food insecurity. However, the newly-founded organic farming industry is cheaper and more sustainable than buying from overseas corporations. Despite the criticism, you feel optimistic the new policy will make the country a healthier place for future generations, reduce pollution and make the country less dependent on foreign agrochemical companies.

B) Continue using the fertilizers: Rice harvests are high, but so are the rates of cancer and chronic kidney disease (CKD) in farming areas. In spite of your healthcare investments and clean-up programs, there is a steady flow of new fertilizer that runs into the rivers and pollutes the water. Your government is also spending a lot to import agrochemicals, which has gotten harder due to an economic crisis. Government budget cuts are on the horizon, and it’s not clear where they will come from.

A) Join a sustainable palm oil certification program: It takes a lot of time and effort to train your employees to use sustainable practices and to coordinate with all the stakeholders. However, as time passes, the benefits begin to outweigh the costs. Your business has gained access to sustainable markets with higher profit margins, and the forests you conserved are thriving. You also have developed good relationships with local community members and governors, making business run smoother.

B) Develop the land as fast as possible: You cut down the forests and immediately begin planting oil palm. Business is doing well, but there's a rumour the government is planning to require sustainable practices and fine operations like yours. You are also fighting local community members because the plantation fertilizers have polluted the river. On top of that, the deforested land is prone to fires, and your staff have already put out two this year. The best path forward is unclear.