Agroecological zones (AEZs) are geographic mapping units developed by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). They are based on climatic conditions and land forms that determine relatively homogeneous crop growing environments. Characterization of AEZs permits a quantitative assessment of the biophysical resources upon which agriculture and forestry research depend.
This strategy features in the framework of Agenda 21 as formulated at UNCED (Rio de Janeiro, 1992), now coordinated by the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development and implemented through national and local authorities. Agenda 21 recommends that national governments, multilateral and bilateral development agencies and non-governmental organizations should cooperate with farmers' organizations in formulating agricultural development projects to specific agro-ecological zones.