This paper was prepared as a background document for the thematic session on ‘Agroecology for Sustainable Systems’ at the Global Science, Technology and Innovation Conference (G-STIC) 201. G-STIC 2017 was held in Brussels from 23rd to 25th October 2017. The thematic session focused focused on ‘Agroecology for Sustainable Food Systems’. We chose this specific focus as the paradigm shift towards diversified agroecological systems is increasingly gaining recognition as one that could enable substantially better food production, while providing a set of farmer-friendly, regenerative solutions that can realize more resilient agricultural practices and provide people with access to sufficient and healthy food under changing climate conditions. Along with other sustainable innovations in agriculture that are environmentally sound and socially just, agroecology can effect the systemic change that is needed to provide sustainable food for all.
