June 2024
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This concluding chapter presents the lessons learned from the chapters in the three parts of the book: (I) Agroforestry Challenges and Alternatives, (II) From Subsistence to Market Oriented Systems, and (III) Environmental Services in Multifunctional Landscapes. The main findings and recommendations from each part are presented, followed by suggestions for addressing some of the pending challenges concerning agroforestry adoption, profitability of agroforestry products and services, and implementation of integrated landscape management approaches. Emphasis is placed on the value of Indigenous knowledge and how scientific expertise can contribute to identifying marketable products, adding value, and finding niche markets that will best reward producers. Agroforestry systems (AFS) can be profitable at the small, medium, and large scale if products and services are fairly and adequately valued and sufficient capacity development is enacted. Government subsidies are needed as in conventional agriculture, and AFS’ contribution of important environmental services should be part of the financial equation. Farmers’ associations and rural movements can be instrumental in grouping needs and obtaining recognition for the fair value of products through certification or other mechanisms. Theories of change need to define the specific metrics for short- and long-term impacts to be useful in evaluating the effectiveness of landscape management approaches. Efficient and equitable governance can empower and enable farmers practicing agroforestry interventions, promoting inclusivity and development in the field. Society is more aware of environmental issues that plague our world today, which will hopefully lead to measures and policies that encourage the proper recognition of AFS as a productive, sustainable, and environmentally friendly landscape management strategy.