The countries stretching from Western China to West Africa have 677 distinct agro-ecological zones, illustrated on this map, which compiles information on soil, water availability, cropping and climate patterns across this region. It is an example of the kind of tools available to countries generated by ICARDA’s research. Agro-ecological zones maps can help government decision makers and planners design effective strategies for rural development and food security.

Using an agro-ecological zones map, decision makers can have a clearer picture of existing and potential food production in their region and compare with similar agro-ecological zones to see what other crops might be grown.