Examination of the place and importance of agroecology in agro-food systems: The case of Ankara-Güdül

The main purpose of this thesis is to examine the agroecological food and agriculture system from a sociological perspective by observing the production processes and techniques of the producers, who state that they adopt agroecological principles instead of non-nature-friendly agricultural methods. In the research, the similarities and differences between the production stories in the past and the agroecological methods they currently apply were discussed by using participant observation and in-depth interview techniques with 14 producers selected for the purpose. A semi-structured interview was used in order to understand the knowledge of small-scale producers who have been producing for years. As part of the research, the factors affecting the motivation of the producers who adopt agroecological practices in production process were also examined. In addition, consumer attitudes and opinions from the eyes of the producers were revealed. On this basis, the evaluations of the participants on the future of family farming and agroecological practices were interpreted and a few suggestions were presented. Findings show that the issue of trust in the current agro-food system should be brought to the agenda more. Efforts should be increased to support small-scale family farming. Alternative food networks, where producers and consumers can directly exchange both knowledge and experience and products, need to be expanded. The concept of agroecology, which encourages the transition from the current system to a sustainable food system, should be brought to the fore in food and agriculture research. For this reason, it has been concluded that social, political and economic transformations should be realized for a long-term sustainable agro-food system.