Agroforesty
Agroforestry is the intentional incorporation of trees and shrubs into agriculture. The two most common approaches to this are growing crops (silvo-arable) or pasture for consumption by animals (silvo-pastoral) beneath and in between trees.
Introduction
Agroforestry is a synergistic approach that combines agriculture and forestry to create more sustainable and productive land-use systems. By integrating trees with crops and livestock, agroforestry enhances carbon sequestration, supports biodiversity, and improves soil health. This method aligns agricultural productivity with environmental sustainability.
Different types of forestation
There are three main types of forestation approaches: agroforestry, reforestation, and afforestation. Each approach involves planting new trees, but they differ slightly in their implementation. We explain these differences below.
Agroforestry
Agroforestry is the intentional incorporation of trees and shrubs into agriculture. The two most common approaches to this are growing crops (silvo-arable) or pasture for consumption by animals (silvo-pastoral) beneath and in between trees.
Reforestation
Reforestation involves replanting or naturally regenerating trees in areas that have been affected by natural disasters such as wildfires or droughts, as well as man-made disturbances like logging, mining, and agricultural clearing.
Afforestation
Afforestation is the practice of creating new forests by introducing trees to previously non-forested areas. Land lost to desertification, disused agricultural and industrial areas, and land degraded from overgrazing is all suitable for afforestation projects.
How it works
Photosynthesis
In agroforestry systems, trees absorb CO₂ from the atmosphere and water from the soil. Through photosynthesis, chlorophyll and sunlight convert these into oxygen and glucose. The oxygen is released, and the glucose nourishes the trees and supports their growth.
How forests store carbon
The glucose produced in photosynthesis is used to build the tree's biomass, including wood, branches, roots, and leaves. This biomass, approximately 50% carbon by dry weight, effectively stores carbon until the tree decomposes or burns.
Factors influencing carbon storage in trees
Carbon storage in agroforestry systems varies with tree species, age, climatic conditions, wood density, and soil quality. Agroforestry typically stores less carbon per unit area compared to forests but provides significant benefits through its integration with agricultural practices.
Combining agriculture and forestry for sustainability
Agroforestry is a multifaceted approach that enhances carbon sequestration while boosting agricultural productivity and resilience. It offers a unique blend of environmental, economic, and social benefits, making it a valuable tool for sustainable land management.
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Agroforestry sequesters CO₂ effectively while allowing farmers to continue earning a livelihood from the land. There is huge potential to scale this method—it’s estimated that there are 1.5 billion hectares worldwide that would benefit from “mosaic restoration”, where forestry is combined with other land uses.
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Agroforestry supports biodiversity, improves soil health, increases agricultural productivity, and enhances resilience to climate change, offering significant co-benefits to both the environment and local communities.
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