Agroecology and Food Consumption Patterns in the Current Environmental and Economic Crisis Scenario

Dear Colleagues,

The path to achieving sustainability has become increasingly difficult due to the ongoing pandemic, a situation exacerbated by the new war scenario in Ukraine. In this context, the feasibility and consequences of the farm to fork strategy, which aims to reduce pesticide use by 50 percent and fertilizer use by 20 percent and convert 25 percent of European farmland to organic farming, has been questioned. In particular, the strategy’s ability to ensure food security, both in the short term and in the coming decades, has been questioned.

However, the farm to fork strategy and agroecology in general is absolutely the most effective way. Indeed, on the one hand, agroecology helps to develop a peaceful system-wide farming approach, working in harmony with natural processes and using local resources. On the other, it brings local farmers closer to their communities, ensuring fresh food for them and also strengthening social capital.

In times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the current war, these systems can show high levels of flexibility, adaptability, and resilience while being less dependent on imported inputs or capital.

In this context, the study of the most appropriate policy strategies, the dynamics involving consumers and producers toward the ecological transition, and the strategies adopted by companies in the agricultural sector will be the main subjects that this Special Issue will seek to better investigate. In addition, further relevant topics are welcome.

Prof. Dr. Giorgio Schifani
Dr. Giuseppina Rizzo
Dr. Giuseppina Migliore
Guest Editors

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