Discovering the Nature-Positive Economy: Opportunities and challenges for the agroecological transition

7 October 2025

By Douwe de Vestele, Project Officer at Voedsel Anders

In an inspiring and interactive workshop, we introduced the Nature-Positive Economy in the agroecological movement.

In short, the Nature-Positive Economy envisions an economic system that contributes to net nature restoration. For agriculture we look in the direction of agroecology as an inspiring movement that combines social and ecological aspects with food production. But we ask ourselves: how can the Nature-Positive Economy (NPE) reinforce our movement, what are gaps, challenges and opportunities? And how do we measure our progress towards an NPE? 

First and foremost, the NPE can link the agroecological movement with broader societal and economic theories. Changing the economy can enable the agroecological transition. It brings a positive message, reminding us that we are not only able to heal the damage done, but also responsible to restore. Second, to include agroecology in the NPE, we need to focus on food sovereignty and autonomy of our food systems. Agroecology is based on the Nyéléni declaration and is a means to achieve food sovereignty. Therefore, it is important to talk about who has the power in our food systems, what power imbalances exist. Third, food is not a commodity. We need to take it out of our capitalist markets, to avoid speculation. We ask the question: should every food-related enterprise, be a not-for-profit? Last, humans and nature are not isolated in an economic system, but are intertwined, and interrelated with all species. By introducing the perspectives of all species, we increase our mutual emotional connection. Measuring our progress, should also be done with the eyes of nature and non-human species, and take into account power relations and food sovereignty. 

To achieve a true transformation, we need active citizens, who actively question hegemonic structures in our food and political systems. We need to hold policy accountable, and call upon them to serve the common good.