FS 3.220: Local agroecological food systems in mountain regions

Mountain regions face unique challenges in fostering sustainable and equitable food systems due to their extreme weather conditions, lack of accessibility, and often marginalization from national and global policies. In this context, Agroecology – understood as a scientific discipline, a set of practice, and a social movement – offers promising alternatives to address the negative impacts of global agri-food systems, including environmental degradation, social inequities, and insufficient nutrition. This session will explore the relevance of agroecology, including in the context of small-scale family farming and local food systems, as a transformative strategy for mountain areas, focusing on its potential to enhance food sovereignty, environmental sustainability, and social justice. It aims to answer to the following questions: how can agroecological approaches be effectively implemented in mountain regions? What conditions are necessary for their success, and how can they address the specific needs of mountain communities? We invite contributions from diverse mountain regions of the Global South and North that critically examine the opportunities and barriers to fostering agroecological transitions, highlight experiences of successful local food systems, and discuss policy frameworks needed to support these initiatives. By addressing these questions, the session aims to deepen our understanding of how agroecology can contribute to sustainable, resilient, and just food systems in mountain regions, offering insights for local communities, researchers, practitioners, and policymakers committed to sustainable development in these unique landscapes.