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Sustainable Agroecosystems II
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:14:41
Abstract
This class conveys current topics and methods of agroecological and food systems research through selected case studies from ongoing research of the Sustainable Agroecosystems group. Students will be encouraged to develop critical thinking competencies, through individual and group work, on major agricultural and food system challenges and paths towards agricultural and food system transformation
Objective
(1) Systematically analyse and discuss case studies from ongoing agroecological and food system research. (2) Learn and experiment on methods for field and laboratory investigations in agroecology. (3) Engage with positive and empowering frameworks that motivate critical reflection and action on the types of transformative responses needed to adapt and thrive within agricultural and food systems. (4) Reflect critically on agricultural and food system transformation tools and methods from the perspective a food system stakeholder. (5) Identify and describe institutions in the context of sustainable agricultural development (for Bachelor and Master thesis and internships).
Content
The course will address a wide range of agricultural and food system challenges (e.g. food security, climate crisis, soil degradation, etc.) in both temperate and tropical contexts. In class we will address topics like building food system resilience through innovative measures, improving soil fertility management or understanding the effects of agroforestry systems. Case studies from the on-going research in the Sustainable Agroecosystems Group (sae.ethz.ch) will be presented, covering different scales (e.g. food value-chains, farm dynamics and soil management). The class is complemented by practical group work conducted with the CSA Meh Als Gmues in Zürich on Measuring and monitoring Agroecological performance. Students will gain an overview on institutions and actors’ roles in the field of sustainable agricultural development. Throughout the group work, students will learn to engage directly with various stakeholders, monitor agroecological transition and communicate their research to a wider audience. Ultimately, this class should provide an overview on methods, tools, innovations and platforms that support a sustainable food transformation.
Resources
Literature
Gliessman, S.R., Méndez, V.E., Izzo, V.M., & Engles, E.W. (2022). Agroecology: Leading the Transformation to a Just and Sustainable Food System (4th ed.). CRC Press. https://doi.org/10.1201/9781003304043 HLPE. 2019. Agroecological and other innovative approaches for sustainable agriculture and food systems that enhance food security and nutrition. A report by the High-Level Panel of Experts on Food Security and Nutrition of the Committee on World Food Security, Rome. Link to report: http://www.fao.org/3/ca5602en/ca5602en.pdf
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- BSC , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Sustainable Agroecosystems II |
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Electives (The electives listed are recommended. However, electives can be chosen from the complete course offer of the ETH Zurich and University of Zurich.)
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