Agroforestry: A holistic approach at the forest–grassland interface in the context of adaptation to climate change

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to draw the attention of the readers to agroforestry and more precisely to silvopastoral systems, which are land use methods with a wealth of opportunities, mixing the advantages of grasslands and forests or trees. Through an analysis of the Great Hungarian Plain in Central Europe and other large-scale restoration projects, we examine contemporary environmental challenges, with particular emphasis on water scarcity impacts on land use sustainability. We propose agroforestry systems as viable alternatives in regions where continuous forest cover cannot be sustained due to ecological limitations and where tree–crop–livestock interactions can enhance overall system productivity and resilience. The urgent need for action underlines the importance of living laboratories, where scientific work should support the overall goal of revitalizing our landscapes.

Keywords

ecosystem services / forest-steppe / landscape / temperate climate / trees

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