Session moderators: Markus Arbenz, FiBL 
Session keynote speakers: Emily Poppenborg, JLU and Rik van den Bosch, ISRIC

Session panelists: Assane Beye, UCAD (Senegal); Samuel Mesele, IITA (Uganda); Jenny Calabrese, CIHEAM (Italy) 

In this session we will explore the options and drivers for a sustainable transition of farming towards agroecological practices, starting with the importance of a verifiable soil information system to a better understanding of the patterns of agroecological practice adoption and/or disadoption, and highlighting key pathways by which agroecology upscaling is likely to attain the most tangible and long-term benefits for smallholders.

Key discussion points include:

• Innovation and Applicability: Exploring novel technologies and smart innovations that facilitate the adoption of agroecological methods.
• Systems Design: Developing effective design strategies to integrate agroecological principles into existing farming systems.
• Capacity Building and Extension: Highlighting the importance of training, extension services, and impactful design strategies to promote widespread adoption. Capacity building is crucial in all stages starting from soil health assessment to agroecological practices.
• Soil information system: Soil information plays a vital role in agroecological transitioning to sustainable farming. Soil information system enables the proper management and monitoring of soil health. Understanding soil properties, fertility, and biodiversity informs decisions on soil management, conservation, and restoration. This provides solid foundation towards agroecological transitioning.
• Monitoring and Evaluation: Assessing the biophysical, social, and economic impacts of the agroecological transition to ensure long-term benefits.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Emphasizing the role of engaging various stakeholders and building capacity to drive the transition effectively.

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