Linking agroecology and household food security : producer experiences at the tianguis "Comida Sana y Cercana" in Chiapas, Mexico.

Abstract

The attainment of food security has long been an important issue in the field of development. Interestingly, a large percentage of those considered to ‘food insecure’ belong to the households of small‐scale agricultural producers. The practice of agroecology is emerging as an accessible and secure means of production for such households. Moreover, it has been argued that producers can earn higher incomes due to the increasing demand for certified ‘organic’ products. Using the case of small‐scale producers in Chiapas, Mexico, this thesis seeks to explore the impact that agroecological practices can have on food security within producer households. As it shall be argued, the diversity and stability inherent in the practice of agroecology provides producers with a means of achieving household food security. Moreover, producer participation within a local food market, which provides them with fair selling conditions and a sense of community, strengthens such conditions.