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Showing posts from May, 2025

Agroforestry and Carbon Trading in Mozambique

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 Agroforestry and Carbon Trading in Mozambique Problem: In rural Mozambique, farmers face extreme climate problems like drought and floods. Most of them (about 98.7%) are smallholder farmers using traditional methods like shifting cultivation, which harms the land and keeps them poor. Solution: FAO started a long-term project (17–20 years) to promote agroforestry —growing trees along with crops—to improve the environment and farmers’ lives. The project is supported by the European Union , and private companies like Acorn and Plan Vivo help through carbon trading . What’s New or Innovative: Farmers plant trees and take care of the land, which helps absorb carbon from the air. This carbon absorption earns Carbon Removal Units (CRUs) that can be sold for money. Digital tools like mobile phones and e-vouchers help farmers register, receive payments, and get inputs. Farmer Field Schools (FFS) train them in agroforestry and sustainable practices. The income from sel...

Silvopastoralism: A Win-Win Solution for Drylands in North Africa

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 Silvopastoralism: A Win-Win Solution for Drylands in North Africa In many dryland areas of North Africa, particularly in Tunisia and Morocco , forest restoration efforts often come into conflict with the needs of pastoralist communities. While these communities rely on grazing lands for their livestock, governments are promoting reforestation to combat land degradation. However, without community involvement and sustainable practices, grazing can damage forest ecosystems. This article explores how silvopastoralism —the integration of tree planting and livestock grazing—offers a sustainable, cost-effective, and inclusive solution. Understanding Silvopastoralism Silvopastoralism is a land management system that combines: Tree cultivation Grassland restoration Controlled grazing of livestock When done responsibly, this system not only improves ecological health but also supports the livelihoods of pastoralists, ensuring a balanced approach to land use. Case Study: Tunis...