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This paper argues that enhancing the contribution of
farming systems is an essential part of any biodiversity
conservation strategy, and requires new technical research,
support for local farmer innovation, and adoption of new
agricultural and environmental policies at local, national
and international levels.
Focusing particularly on 'biodiversity hotspots', the paper
begins by reviewing evidence which suggests that
agricultural activity is a key factor in the loss of
biodiversity through habitat loss, use of agricultural
inputs, soil degradation and the diversion of water
resources for agricultural use. The authors then describe
the two principle strategies used in 'ecoagriculture' that
can promote biodiversity conservation through changes in
agricultural practice and policy. These are:
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To increase wildlife habitat in non-farmed patches in
agricultural landscapes, creating mosaics of wild and
cultivated land uses.
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To enhance the habitat quality of productive agricultural
land
Among the key challenges identified promoting
'ecoagriculture' are to:
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Develop and fund a Global Programme for Ecoagriculture Research and Development, in selected biodiversity hotspots.
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Undertake international and national policy research and
innovation to develop cost effective market, legislative and
institutional interventions to promote ecoagriculture on a
large scale.
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Develop networks of farmer innovators with technical
specialists in agriculture and environment, who work in
similar habitat types, through websites, e-workshops, and
field tours in biodiversity hotspots of mutual interest.
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Fund basic research in biodiversity hotspots on
interactions between agricultural systems and wildlife
habitat and species, particularly in landscape ecology,
agricultural ecology, and wildlife behaviour.
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Develop programmes to educate farmers, agricultural
researchers and policymakers in ecosystem management, and
to educate wildlife biologists, ecologists and conservation
policymakers in agricultural resource management.
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