Agroecology, also known as ecological or sustainable regenerative agriculture, is not a new practice. It has been used by many since humanity started cultivating crops. It is basically the practice of producing food while sustaining or even improving the environment.

It has been used by many since humanity started cultivating crops. It is basically the practice of producing food while sustaining or even improving the environment. In other words it is working with nature rather than against it. God provided us already with the diversity, richness, abundance, and natural processes that make life flourish and prosper. Our role as caretakers of this amazing creation is to observe, learn and mimic these processes as much as possible in the way we produce food that ultimately sustains and even heals usl. Somehow, we have lost this connection and have taken for granted creation, reducing it to an object to be abused and exploited for our own gain. This has brought consequences to the wellbeing of humanity such that people and landscapes/ecosystems don’t flourish as God intended them to.

What does this have to do with climate change you might ask? Well, there is enough scientific evidence that the way we cultivate our soil or raise livestock has direct impacts on the climate. Therefore, agriculture both impacts and is impacted by climate change. Let us therefore be wise and choose to work with nature rather than against it so that present and future generations can flourish.

I am currently representing World Renew and the Climate Witness Project at COP23 in Bonn, Germany. It is exciting to be here. When you are together in an enclosed space with thousands of people from all over the world, coming together from all walks of life, to stand in solidarity for a cause that is affecting the entire world, it is an awesome thing. You realize that you, as an individual, are one of many with the same passion, and that each of us are one small but crucial piece of the puzzle. Each of us has our own unique contribution to make to the bigger picture of defending vulnerable people and preserving God’s good world. It’s a very humbling experience!

Blessings,

Stephan Lutz

Program Consultant
World Renew Kenya

 

PHOTO TOP: An innovative young farmer practices agroecology techniques PHOTO CREDIT: Rhonda Elgersma, World Renew