Africa - Implementing agroecology and circular economy technologies to reduce SLCPs from maize and rice production

This project was approved under the CCAC's 2022 call for transformative action in the agriculture sector. 

The adoption of agroecology and circular economy technologies by farmers is a crucial tool in reducing methane and black carbon emissions from Africa's cultivation of maize and rice. In sub-Saharan Africa, the agriculture landscape often deals with food system and ecosystem services in a fragmented way, and many scientists and agricultural practitioners in the region are unaware of agroecology and circular economy solutions. 

Without intervention, Africa's agriculture and natural resources risk a loss of biodiversity, high tillage, increased post-harvest open burning, increased flooding of rice fields, increased black carbon and methane emissions, respiratory disorders, and ultimately reduced ecosystem productivity. 

Project reference: [AGR-22-004] Africa - Implementing agroecology technologies to reduce SLCPs from maize and rice production

What we're doing

This project will develop and implement the necessary technology & innovations, capacities, institutional strengthening, and media engagement to foster the adoption of agroecology and circular economy solutions. 

This project will work closely with public and private institutions primarily in Ghana to develop a technology parks and online interactive platform for continuous learning on agroecology and circular economy. It will engage with private sector institutions and farms outside of Ghana to test and validate innovative technologies and strengthen capacity for SLCP reductions from agriculture. 

Working together with ministries, development partners, private sector partners, and IFIs, it will develop strategic plans for horizontal policy coherence for mitigating SLCPs through agroecology and circular economy by June 2025. It will also engage national media networks and public education institutions to raise awareness on the importance of SLCP reductions from agriculture.