Though forests burn, trees retake farmland globally as agroforestry advances
- Martin Ford
- Jun 14
- 1 min read
Patrick Worms
2020-08-10
Mongabay
Keywords: Agroforestry, Soil regeneration, Climate mitigation, Agricultural sustainability
Agroforestry is the intentional combination of woody perennials like trees and shrubs with crops and also livestock to create a resilient “food ecosystem” that benefits farmers, biodiversity and the climate.
In an analysis for Mongabay, agroforestry expert Patrick Worms suggests that while news reports show forests burning in many places, one can take heart from the fact that trees are busily taking root upon the world’s vast swaths of farmland.
The article discusses about Agroforestry, an ancient agricultural practice, is experiencing a resurgence worldwide due to the limitations of industrialized agriculture. This technique involves integrating trees and shrubs with crops and livestock to create resilient food ecosystems that benefit farmers, biodiversity, and the climate. In regions like Africa, agroforestry shows promise in revitalizing agriculture by leveraging the power of trees to enhance soil fertility, increase crop yields, and mitigate environmental challenges. The article highlights the vital role of trees in agriculture through the experiences of farmers like El Hadj Ndiaye in Senegal, showcasing the multiple benefits trees provide, from nutrient cycling and soil conservation to microclimate regulation and resource provisioning. Despite challenges faced in conventional industrial farming, agroforestry presents a sustainable alternative that addresses current agricultural limitations while promoting environmental sustainability and resilience.
Tags: Agroforestry, Soil fertility, Climate change mitigation, Sustainable agriculture, Tree-crop integration
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