Agroforestry: a solution for sustainable territories
By restoring trees to fields and pastures, agroforestry contributes to addressing the current challenges facing our society.
The climate challenge
At a time when climate is a major challenge, the IPCC identifies agroforestry as a highly positive tool for mitigating and adapting to climate change. Planting trees on agricultural land helps sequester atmospheric CO2 in both their biomass and the soil. Trees in rural areas also serve as a means of adapting to the effects of the climate crisis through shading and the creation of microclimates. Thus, agroforestry systems act both as carbon sinks and climate buffers.
The biodiversity challenge
Fewer insects, birds, and mammals in the fields are observations made by farmers and residents in rural areas. Hedgerows and groves, which provide shelter and food, are immense reservoirs of biodiversity from the soil to the treetops. Each connected tree is a link in the Green Network, supporting the wintering, feeding, reproduction, and migration of fauna and flora. Thus, reconstructing hedgerows helps restore ecosystem balance at both the agricultural plot level and the territorial level.
The food challenge
As agriculture faces numerous threats (loss of fertility, diseases and pests, water shortages...), agroforestry emerges as a future-proof solution that combines economic and environmental performance. In the presence of trees, crops and livestock are protected, soils are enriched, biodiversity is enhanced, and water pollution is reduced, along with the use of fertilizers and pesticides. Agroforestry thus enables the development of sustainable and efficient agriculture while producing high-quality food products.
The water challenge
With groundwater levels at their lowest, dried-up streams, and rising pollution, water protection is more relevant than ever. Hedgerow trees play an essential role in managing this resource. Deeply rooted in the lower parts of watersheds or along waterways, they reduce erosion and filter pollutants of agricultural origin, thereby helping to maintain water quality. Their roots encourage water infiltration into the soil, increasing existing water reserves and contributing to flood regulation during heavy rains. They play a crucial role in preserving water resources and managing risks associated with precipitation.
The energy challenge
In response to soaring energy prices, the key words are: sobriety and diversification. Wood from hedge trimming meets these needs. It produces three times more wood than forest trees of the same age. Indeed, agroforestry trees are full-light trees that benefit from a favorable environment (crop fertilization, low competition between them, soil cultivation, etc.). Wood energy thus presents both ecological and economic advantages. Ecologically, a well-maintained hedgerow provides an unlimited supply of firewood while being less polluting than fossil fuels. Economically, wood chips cost five times less than electricity!
