Scaling up effective grass roots experience in sustainable development needs people, tools, organisations and networks that are effective in influencing policy. This book explores how such mediation between grass roots and policy formation processes can and does work in practice by focusing on experiences in Latin America in promoting sustainable agriculture and rural development. The contribution to this book draw on the work of researchers, activists, farmers and policy makers through concrete evidence and appraisal. The case studies and broader analysis presented offer a cautiously optimistic view of how local knowledge, distinct perspectives and needs can be reflected in the policies of governments, international institutions and business.