Agroecological transition in olive based farming systems among smallholder farms in northwestern Tunisia

Abstract

Agricultural intensification has increased production and economic growth but has also generated significant environmental and social challenges that threaten long-term sustainability, highlighting the need for more sustainable farming models. Agroecology offers a promising pathway to enhance resilience and support inclusive rural development. In this context, Tunisia’s olive sector provides a relevant case for examining agroecological transitions in semi-arid smallholder systems. This study evaluates the degree of agroecological transition among smallholder olive farms in the Elles region of northwestern Tunisia using the FAO Tool for Agroecology Performance Evaluation (TAPE). Based on a sample of 60 farms, the analysis applies the Characterization of Agroecological Transition (CAET) index, grounded in the 10 Elements of Agroecology, to compare four production systems: (i) olive monoculture, (ii) diversified cropping, (iii) olive–livestock integration, and (iv) integrated olive–crop–livestock systems. Economic, social, environmental and institutional performance were explored using the TAPE Core Criteria of Performance (Step 2) and examined in relation to CAET scores. Results reveal a clear agroecological gradient, with diversified and integrated systems achieving markedly higher CAET scores (up to 52%) compared to monoculture systems (31%). Spearman correlations show strong associations between CAET and key dimensions, including synergy (ρ = 0.79), human and social values (ρ = 0.78), and diversity (ρ = 0.71). Several TAPE economic performance indicators, including monthly income, which ranged from approximately 1,349 TND in monoculture systems to 4,892 TND in diversified olive–crop–livestock systems, were positively associated with higher CAET scores, suggesting that agroecological transition may not necessarily imply a trade-off between productivity and sustainability. However, limited collective action, weak market integration, and insufficient extension services constrain broader adoption. These findings highlight the potential of diversification as a key lever for agroecological transition and underscore the importance of targeted policy support.