I N S C T S is an ongoing project exploring the global rise of insect farming and its contribution to a transformation that embraces the inherent circularity of nature.

Through a hybrid body of work—combining documentary photography, microscope images, and audio interviews —I have been researching how this practice, rooted in both ancestral knowledge and cutting-edge science, promotes more equitable and regenerative agricultural models.

Some insects, in fact, can upcycle organic waste into feed for animals such as chickens or many freshwater fish that naturally consume insects in their diets. Additionally, frass (insect residuals) serves as a natural and economical alternative to chemical fertilizers.

From rural communities in post-conflict areas to pioneering researchers and mega-urban hubs, insect farming provides a sustainable source of agricultural inputs that can reduce deforestation, biodiversity loss, soil degradation, and overfishing—consequences of the current highly extractive agrifood system.

Insect farming reimagines our relationship with waste, food, and ecosystems. The Tropics offer ideal conditions, making insect farming a redistributive agricultural practice that can help alleviate rural poverty and strengthen community sovereignty.

Insects can reduce smallholder farmers’ reliance on expensive—and environmentally unsustainable—feeds and fertilizers, which are major barriers to both food production and income generation.

Basic and affordable insect farming methods are increasingly being adopted in rural areas across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. In many of these regions, insects have long been part of human diets.

Aversion to edible insects is a product of colonial history, later reinforced by the globalization of Western diets. The ongoing reframing process is, therefore, also a decolonization process—one that is indispensable in light of a growing global population.

I N S C T S challenges dominant narratives around food production and consumption, sparking dialogue around coexistence, equality, and sustainability. This is the story of a global revolutionary opportunity.

The photographs were taken in research centres, farms, communities, and companies in Europe (The Netherlands, France, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Germany), Colombia, Thailand, Malaysia, and the U.S. (California and Texas).