The terms abound these days — agroecological, agrobiodiverse — but all involve taking some of the principles, processes and practices of organic farming and using them in farming more generally. Many of these initiatives also work on certified organic farms too. The initiative I attended was called Capsella (after the plant) and is about communities of practice — that’s farmers, …

We all intrinsically think that nature must be good for our health and happiness. A recent analysis of a large-scale nature challenge scientifically shows how important feeling part of nature is to our physical and mental health. There are a growing number of studies and campaigns putting forward evidence that a connection with nature makes us healthier and happier people, …

On Growing Food Growing food transforms us into producers — something we desperately need in a passive consumer culture where we have become an audience watching life rather than producers making it. Growing food provides a connection to and an understanding of where our food comes from. It schools us in what food looks like when it comes out of …

A comprehensive study finds organic agriculture is more profitable for farmers than conventional agriculture. In spite of lower yields, the global study shows that the profit margins for organic agriculture were significantly greater than for conventional agriculture. The results show that there’s room for organic agriculture to expand and, with its environmental benefits, to contribute a larger share in feeding …

In March 2013, MEI in partnership with GIZ conducted a market study on the subject of housing insulation measures in two regions of Kyrgyzstan: Naryn and Issyk-Kul.

Ecojot is a brother-sister team found by Mark and Carolyn Gavin in 2007. Ecojot¨ creates eco-friendly stationery, paper goods and custom products that feature whimsical and inspirational designs.

5 years on — The world understands that social issues and environmental crisis are now matters of urgency. Day after day, prophets of all kind are pulling the emergency cord, the entire economy is turning green and sustainable-developementising speeches are spreading around. Actions remain scarce but words abound.