Agroforestry: An Eco-friendly Strategy for Reducing and Adapting to Climate Change

The significant rise in the release of greenhouse gases, primarily CO2, CH4, and N2O, over some time due to human activities, including agriculture, is intensifying climate change. This poses a threat to ecosystems and livelihood security, which has garnered global attention toward the role of agroforestry (AF). The primary cause of the rise in carbon dioxide concentration is the burning of fossil fuels. A research study discovered a positive correlation between CO2 concentration and temperature. As CO2 levels continue to climb, they will trap more heat, leading to elevated temperatures. To maintain a balanced heat budget, it is crucial to stabilize CO2 concentration. AF emerges as a viable approach to achieve this, as it absorbs carbon from the atmosphere through photosynthesis, storing it in biomass and soil. The Kyoto Protocol’s recommended sustainable land use strategy is essential to reducing the effects of climate change. AF shows promise in carbon sequestration within biomass and the utilization of diverse resources. Additionally, it aids in curbing greenhouse gas emissions, supporting livelihoods, and offering partial solutions for conserving biodiversity. AF has the potential to enhance the resilience of smallholder farmers, contributing to poverty reduction and boosting productivity on their farms. Presently, AF stands as a relevant and effective land use system for improving agricultural crop yields. With so many benefits, AF can be seen as a comprehensive response to environmental changes because of its capacity to provide a variety of ecosystem services. It combats soil erosion, enhances water infiltration, and mitigates the adverse effects of extreme weather events. Moreover, AF practices diversify income sources for farmers, increasing their resilience against climate-induced crop failure or livestock loss. Tree-derived products can also serve as energy sources. Furthermore, increased tree coverage offers mitigation benefits by acting as a carbon sink on land.