Agroforestry integrates trees and other perennials into farming systems for the benefit of farm families and the environment. It’s an ancient practice that has been closely studied only in recent decades. Since then, CIFOR-ICRAF have learned that agroforestry systems are an important alternative to monocultural agricultural production, which can cause widespread deforestation and degradation of land. Growing trees alongside crops can help reduce erosion, improve or maintain soil fertility and contribute to more efficient use of nutrients.
CIFOR-ICRAF have developed a range of innovative solutions that help countries counter the effects of degraded farmless in many different parts of the world. These have been implemented and tested from Asia to Africa and Latin America.
Stories of transformation
Poor? Restore!: When dreams come true (Part 3)
The story of Giang Thi Hoa in Viet Nam shows how a young woman’s dream of higher education comes true through the surprising avenue of growing trees, crops and livestock together on her family’s degraded land.
TOOLS
Diversity of agroforestry practices in Viet Nam
This book describes a high diversity of agroforestry practices in Viet Nam and can help (re-)introduce and support wider development of agroforestry in the country. ICRAF Viet Nam team has conducted a literature review and compiled information on agroforestry practices from different ICRAF projects and studies in Viet Nam. The book provides key information of all agroforestry practices presented, including plant components, distribution across the country, and actual or potential benefits. It also provides relevant photos for most of the systems to better illustrate them.
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