Exploration of the principles and practices of sustainable agriculture and their integration with ecological concepts. Students will develop a deep understanding of how agriculture affects environmental health, economic viability, and social equity. Through lectures, discussions, and self-driven research projects, students will learn how to evaluate sustainability in agriculture.
Athena Title
Sustainable Agriculture
Semester Course Offered
Offered spring
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student Learning Outcomes
Focuses on introducing students to new topics as well as gaining new skills in navigating the scientific literature. The main outcomes for learners are:
Define and explain the principles of sustainable agriculture and their relationship with ecological, environmental, social, and economic sciences.
Understand the concept of agroecology and its role in promoting resilient and sustainable food systems including as part of climate change adaptation and maintaining food security.
Gain confidence in reading, interpreting, and summarizing concepts from primary literature (scientific papers).
Build presentation and discussion skills (both written and oral) about sustainable agriculture.
Acquire a breadth of basic knowledge of the different topics that shape sustainable agroecology by generating a written body documenting self-driven research on a topic of your choosing within sustainable agriculture.
Topical Outline
Introduction to Sustainable Agriculture and Ecology
• Definition of sustainable agriculture and its importance
• Historical context and evolution of agricultural practices
• Principles of agroecology and their relationship to ecological concepts
• Systems thinking in agriculture: understanding interconnections
Environmental Impacts of Agriculture
• Comparison of conventional vs. sustainable agriculture: ecological, social, and economic impacts
• Soil erosion, water pollution, and other environmental challenges
• Land sparing vs land sharing
Sustainable Agricultural Systems
• Organic farming principles and practices
• Permaculture design and implementation
• Agroforestry and silvopasture systems
• Urban agriculture, hydroponics, and rooftop gardening
Soil, Water, and Waste
• Soil degradation and erosion prevention, cover cropping, and crop rotation
• Composting, secondary products, and food waste
• Soil and water testing and nutrient management
• Water consumption and water policy
Crops, Countries, and Industries
• Case studies of certain example crops, industries, and countries
• Students generate and choose project ideas
Biodiversity and Conservation in Agriculture
• Importance of biodiversity in agricultural ecosystems
• Habitat restoration and wildlife-friendly farming practices
• Integrating native plants and pollinators in agricultural landscapes
Agroecology and Resilient Food Systems
• Principles of agroecology: diversity, efficiency, and resilience
• Food sovereignty and security in a changing climate
• Case studies of agroecological projects around the world
Sustainable Agriculture and Global Challenges
• Climate change and its impacts on agriculture
• Mitigation and adaptation strategies for sustainable agriculture
• Role of sustainable agriculture in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals
Policies and Regulations
• Government policies and incentives for sustainable agriculture
• International agreements and organizations promoting sustainable agriculture
• Barriers to implementing sustainable agriculture and potential solutions