Depending upon the application, potential impacts of agroforestry can include:
- Reducing poverty through increased production of wood and other tree products for home consumption and sale
- Contributing to food security by restoring the soil fertility for food crops
- Cleaner water through reduced nutrient and soil runoff
- Countering global warming and the risk of hunger by increasing the number of drought-resistant trees and the subsequent production of fruits, nuts and edible oils
- Reducing deforestation and pressure on woodlands by providing farm-grown fuelwood
- Reducing or eliminating the need for toxic chemicals (insecticides, herbicides, etc.)
- Through more diverse farm outputs, improved human nutrition
- In situations where people have limited access to mainstream medicines, providing growing space for medicinal plants
Agroforestry practices may also realize a number of other associated environmental goals, such as:
- Carbon sequestration
- Odor, dust, and noise reduction
- Green space and visual aesthetics
- Enhancement or maintenance of wildlife habitat
Sustainable America has more information about agroforestry here.
Until next time...become the change you imagine.
