The Biofarming approach applied in Ethiopia has as basis the three pillars of sustainability (ecological, social and economic) which the aim is to develop sustainable human settlements and self-maintained agricultural systems modelled from natural ecosystems and merging various approaches like permaculture, organic farming and conservation agriculture within a holistic perspective.
The Biofarming approach is a science and evidence-based approach to sustainable livelihood, built upon indigenous knowledge and skills, continuously integrated and implemented with recent scientific advances and relies on holistic restorative and environmental friendly methods to improve ecosystem service provision.
Model farm facilities (BIOFARM) are integrated elements of Biofarming approach and serve for demonstration, training and research purposes. BS is introduced to farmers through short intensive period of training, based on an analysis of local agro-ecological constrains and where different types of sustainable natural resource management practices are introduced into the farming systems. The establishment of BS is of particular interest in areas where resources are scarce, diversification of production activities are required and positive impact on the ecosystem need to be ensured.
Programme of the BTS (Addis Ababa, Ethiopia)