Asante: Integrating circular economy with agroecology key to agriculture development

The integration of circular economy principles with agroecology is heralding a new era in agriculture development, according to Research Scientist Kwaku Asante from the CSIR Crop Research Institute. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Asante emphasized the critical need to shift focus towards sustainable agricultural practices that prioritize soil health, biodiversity, and economic diversification. The conventional input-driven production systems in agriculture have long been plagued with challenges such as high costs, environmental risks, and diminishing soil health due to excessive use of fertilizers and chemicals. Asante highlighted the pressing concerns surrounding soil microbial biodiversity and the detrimental impact of current practices on the overall ecosystem. Within the framework of agroecology, efforts are aimed at reducing agriculture inputs, fostering soil health, promoting biodiversity, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders in the food and agriculture sectors. Asante stressed the importance of economic diversification within the principles of agroecology, which not only benefit farmers but also contribute to sustainable agricultural practices. A key aspect that operationalizes agroecology is the concept of circular economy. Asante pointed out that the integration of circular economy principles with agroecology is crucial in addressing waste and pollution issues prevalent in conventional production systems. Biomass waste, a significant concern in agriculture, is often burned by farmers, leading to the release of harmful black carbon into the atmosphere. To combat this, scientists are exploring ways to harness biomass and convert it into compost and organic materials that can be reintroduced into the soil to enhance soil health and biodiversity while minimizing the need for external inputs like fertilizers. The synergy between agroecology and circular economy is not only environmentally beneficial but also economically viable. By incorporating animal and livestock production alongside crops, farmers can diversify their income sources and reduce dependency on chemical fertilizers. This approach not only mitigates risks associated with monocropping but also contributes to a more sustainable and resilient agricultural system. Asante emphasized the importance of ecosystem services in driving agricultural sustainability. By focusing on provisioning ecosystem services such as food production and regulatory ecosystem services like climate regulation, the integration of agroecology and circular economy aims to create a more balanced and sustainable agricultural ecosystem. The benefits extend beyond just economic feasibility to encompass environmental conservation, human health, and long-term agricultural resilience. The shift towards integrating circular economy principles with agroecology signals a paradigm shift in agriculture development, one that prioritizes ecological sustainability, economic viability, and social inclusivity. As stakeholders across the agriculture value chain increasingly embrace these principles, the future of agriculture looks promising with sustainable practices at its core.