Interdisciplinary Academy (IDA) on Exploring Agroecological practices in Swedish dairy farming

Our food system contributes to major environmental, economic, and social problems, such as greenhouse gas emissions, biodiversity loss, soil degradation, and unequal access to resources. To address these issues, researchers and policymakers are calling for a transformation of how food is produced and consumed. One promising pathway is agroecology, which promotes sustainable farming through practices like crop rotation, mixed farming, and reduced use of external inputs. However, there is still uncertainty about how agroecology can be implemented in Sweden and how it can balance production with fair and resilient food systems. This project focuses on the Swedish dairy sector—a key part of national food production—to explore how agroecological practices could contribute to more sustainable and resilient food systems.

Using an interdisciplinary approach that brings together expertise from natural and social sciences, agrarian history, economics, and veterinary studies, the project examines both the production and consumption sides of the dairy system. We study regional differences, historical trends, and future possibilities for integrating agroecology into Swedish dairy farming. The research is guided by four key questions: (1) Which agroecological practices and principles are most relevant for Swedish dairy farming? (2) Who is adopting these practices, and why? (3) Which combinations of practices best support multiple food system goals—environmental, social, and economic? and (4) Where and how should such practices be implemented across Sweden? Through workshops, reflection, and collaborative writing, the project aims to both strengthen interdisciplinary research and generate new insights into how agroecology can support a sustainable transformation of Sweden’s food systems.