Agroecology

Training Certificate issued by INEA Foundation

Content:

1. Introduction: An overview of the topic is presented, explaining the key concepts and the importance of studying ecosystems and their functioning within the environment.
2. Ecological factors: Biotic and abiotic elements that influence the structure and behavior of ecosystems are detailed, such as climate, soil, light, interactions between species, among others.
3. Biodiversity: The variety of living species in ecosystems is addressed, both at the level of genetic diversity, species diversity, and ecosystem diversity, and their importance for ecological balance and the health of the planet is discussed.
4. Populations: The concept of population in ecology is analyzed, exploring how different species form, grow, distribute, and interact within the same habitat or ecosystem.
5. Matter and Energy in Ecosystems: This course delves into how matter and energy circulate within ecosystems, analyzing biogeochemical cycles and food chains, as well as the flow of energy from producers to consumers and decomposers.
6. Ecological succession: Explains the process by which ecosystems transform and evolve over time, whether due to natural factors or human activity, and how this process leads to the formation of new ecosystems.
7. Agroecology: The concept of agroecology is introduced, a discipline that studies the interactions between agroecosystems and the environment, promoting sustainable agricultural practices that favor biodiversity, soil health, and food security.
8. Pollution: The various forms of pollution that affect ecosystems are examined, such as air, water, and soil pollution, and the negative effects these pollutants have on biodiversity and human health.

Goals:
To gain a solid and in-depth understanding of the principles and foundations of ecological theory, in order to apply these concepts to the design and implementation of sustainable agricultural practices that promote ecosystem balance and conservation. This objective seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of how ecological factors, such as species interactions, biogeochemical cycles, and energy and matter in ecosystems, can directly influence the management of agroecosystems. The goal is to improve the efficiency and sustainability of agricultural practices, reducing negative environmental impacts and promoting biodiversity, soil health, and the responsible management of natural resources.