A living laboratory for agroecology and social change

Not far from the University of Agricultural Sciences in Southern Sweden, Alnarp’s Agroecology Farm stands as an example of the power of community-driven, agricological farming. Established in 2021 by a group of agroecology master’s students, this small-scale, non-profit farm provides the local community with fresh, agroecologically grown vegetables and flowers. The farm has become a hub for promoting fairness and resilience in food systems through agricultural and social research, education, and community building. 

Cultivating a sustainable future 

Alnarp’s Agroecology Farm is rooted in the principles of agroecology, seeking harmony between farming, people and nature. The farm is entirely chemical-free, and all cultivation is done by hand—demonstrating how small-scale, human-powered farming can thrive. More than just a place to grow vegetables, it is a living example of how agroecological practices can foster resilience in local food systems and promote fairness across the food chain. 

This commitment to sustainability extends beyond the farm itself. As a vibrant gathering place for students, researchers, and community members, the farm nurtures a sense of community while offering hands-on learning and research opportunities. Through its broader impact on the local community, it showcases agroecology’s potential not only as an alternative approach to food production but also as a powerful catalyst for social change. 

SIANI’s ASAPP project: Amplifying agroecological stories 

SIANI is proud to feature Alnarp’s Agroecology Farm, as the first case study for our newly started project “Amplifying Stories of Agroecology Principles and Practices (ASAPP). ASAPP spotlights real-world applications of the 13 Principles of Agroecology by documenting agroecological practices in place in different agricultural regions. Its goal is to empower farmers and facilitate the widespread adoption of agroecological practices by making them more visible and accessible. By highlighting successful examples in collaboration with farmers, ASAPP places farmers at the heart of discussions on viable agroecological transitions.  

Through a co-creative approach with Alnarp’s farm, we have mapped all agroecological practices in place at the farm against the HLPE 13 Principles of Agroecology. These practices are divided based on their focus, including enhancing biodiversity, diversifying the farm’s income, fostering social equity, increasing participation and enhancing co-creation of knowledge. This framework addresses actions at  the farm level and within the broader food system. Farmers at Alnarp have assessed their alignment with each principle using a self-rating system, scoring each on a scale from 1 to 5, where 1 indicates no alignment and 5 indicates strong alignment.   

Alnarp’s alignment with the 13 Principles of Agroecology 

Alnarp’s Agroecology Farm exemplifies the application of agroecological principles across various farming practices, contributing to sustainable and resilient food systems. In alignment with the 13 Principles of Agroecology, the farm incorporates key methods reflecting resource efficiency, biodiversity, and community engagement. 

For example, in addressing biomass recycling, the farm produces its own compost from organic waste, such as vegetable scraps and crop remnants. Additionally, biofertiliser is made from natural materials like nettle and tomato leaves. The farm optimises water management through drip irrigation, applying water directly to plant roots and minimising evaporation by irrigating in the early mornings and evenings. 

The farm also practices agroforestry, with willow trees acting as windbreaks, preventing soil erosion, enhancing water retention, and improving drainage. Crop diversity is another key aspect, with approximately 40 different cultivars planted each season, along with the addition of 700 apple trees. 

Community engagement is central to the farm’s model, with educational workshops promoting knowledge exchange and fostering stronger community connections. The farm’s Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) initiative deepens these relationships, offering culturally and seasonally appropriate food while involving members in decision-making processes through a cooperative ownership model.   

Looking ahead 

As the first farm in SIANI’s ASAPP initiative, Alnarp is helping to bring these principles to life, offering valuable insights into how farmers can meet emerging agricultural standards while staying true to their local traditions and environmental goals. 

At SIANI, we believe that Alnarp’s role in ASAPP will inspire other farms to follow suit, encouraging farmers around the world to adopt agroecological methods that not only protect the environment but also foster fairness and resilience in the food system. By shining a light on real-world examples like Alnarp, the ASAPP project hopes to empower farmers and communities to make sustainable choices for a better future. 

In this way, Alnarp’s Agroecology Farm is more than just a farm; it’s a catalyst for change, sowing the seeds for a more sustainable and equitable food system.