Round 1

Samuel Schlaefli

Nationality

Swiss

Career-level

Established

Host institution

Aarhus Institute of Advanced Studies

Denmark

Residency project

Stories of transformation – increasing food security and ecological health through agroecology

Agroecology is a science, a set of practices and a social movement. It is defined by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) as “an integrated approach that simultaneously applies ecological and social concepts and principles to the design and management of food and agricultural systems”. As early as 2008, 60 governments, more than 400 scientists from all regions of the world and the FAO called for the expansion of organic farming and agroecological methods to promote small scale farmers worldwide.

I have been reporting about agroecology projects and initiatives in Europe and the Global South in the past two years and became ever more interested in the potential of this concept for the transition to a more sustainable food system.

My stay at Aarhus University will allow me to deepen my knowledge in agroecology and to assess the potential for a sustainable and just transition in our food system. The Department of Agroecology at Aarhus University does basic, strategic and applied research in issues regarding the interaction between climate, soil, plants, animals and people in agro-ecosystems with a focus on promoting health, sustainability and environmentally friendly production of food, feed, energy and bio-based products. More than 120 scientifical staff work on different aspects of agroecology, like soil fertility, plant pathology, genetics, crop health, biotechnology, nutrients, agricultural systems, soil physics, climate, environment, water systems.

I am searching for new ways to inspire broad segments of the population to engage more deeply with journalism that can make a difference in people’s everyday lives. Science, like journalism, is a central pillar of a functioning democracy, but requires constant critical reflection through professionals. During the fellowship, I will expand my toolbox as a science journalist in order to be even better equipped for complex, in-depth and society- changing reporting.

Not only do I hope that my project will make a valuable contribution, based on the latest scientific knowledge, on how to transform the food system into something more sustainable. But I also hope to get some inspiration on how we can make science journalism even more effective and valuable for society. Last, but not least, I am very much looking forward to becoming part of the FRONTIERS community and to interacting with and learning from colleagues all over Europe.