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LB0120

The ecology of cropping systems

The course is based on ecological theory and how it affects the design of cropping and farming systems depending on socio-economic context. The course provides in-depth knowledge of ecological and technical factors that enable ecological intensification with the aim of improve the functioning of the system, increasing the efficiency of the use of natural resources, while reducing negative environmental impacts.


The cropping systems are discussed from a global perspective, including livestock integration, agroforestry and local food systems, with special references to the Swedish agricultural sector.


The multi-functionality of the cropping systems and conflicts between different goals and functions are discussed, especially in relation to the expected societal needs (including SDGs) and challenges from future scenarios.


Case studies and virtual excursions will be used as a method to cover a wide range of edaphoclimatic regions and cropping systems, but also to elucidate the role of different stakeholders in shaping cropping systems and the use of different technologies and practices. Among the stakeholders, farmers will be the focus, but their role will be balanced with the perspectives of other actors such as consumers, industry, advisers and authorities.


The course includes studies of methods for evaluating cropping systems and discussion on the integration of cropping systems into different socio-ecological systems.


The course is structured into themes that are introduced with lectures followed by exercises, literature seminars, and virtual reality excursions (to see cropping systems from other regions). A project work in which the students can define the topic themselves is included.


Course evaluation

The course evaluation is open

Please fill in the evaluation form

You have until 2024-04-02

Additional course evaluations for LB0120

Academic year 2022/2023

The ecology of cropping systems (LB0120-30084)

2023-01-16 - 2023-03-21

Academic year 2021/2022

The ecology of cropping systems (LB0120-30294)

2022-01-17 - 2022-03-23

Syllabus and other information

Course facts

The course is offered as an independent course: Yes The course is offered as a programme course: EnvEuro - European Master in Environmental Science Agriculture Programme - Soil/Plant Tuition fee: Tuition fee only for non-EU/EEA/Switzerland citizens: 38060 SEK Cycle: Master’s level (A1N)
Subject: Agricultural Science Biology Agricultural science Biology
Course code: LB0120 Application code: SLU-30369 Location: Uppsala Distance course: No Language: English Responsible department: Department of Crop Production Ecology Pace: 100%