Agroecology: The Ecology of Sustainable Food Systems

by Stephen R. Gliessman

Providing the theoretical and conceptual framework for this continually evolving field, Agroecology: The Ecology of Sustainable Food Systems, Second Edition explores environmental factors and complexities affecting agricultural crops and animals. Completely revised, updated, and reworked, the second edition contains new data, new readings, new issues and case studies, and new options. It includes two completely new chapters, one on the role of livestock animals in agroecosystems and one on the cultural and community aspects of sustainable food systems.

The author clearly delineates the importance of using an ecosystem framework for determining if a particular agricultural practice, input, or management decision contributes or detracts from sustainability. He explains how the framework provides the ecological basis for the functioning of the chosen management strategy over the long-term. He also examines system level interactions, stressing the need for understanding the emergent qualities of populations, communities, and ecosystems and their roles in sustainable agriculture. Using examples of farming systems in a broad array of ecological conditions, the book demonstrates how to use an ecosystem approach to design and manage agroecosystems for sustainability.

Genres: Agriculture, Science, Nonfiction, Textbooks

408 pages, Hardcover

Published November 15, 2006

Reviews

[E O N · Rating 4 out of 5]

Classic, read it. Loved the social aspects, we can always hope for utopia

[Kristi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Solid textbook, relevant information and data. I didn't use this one as much as I anticipated during my course work, but I am glad I own it because it is a great resource.