Ecosystems, landscapes, resilience

The ecosystem services provided by forests and trees outside forests often underpin agricultural production and are essential for the well-being of urban and rural communities.

©Altaire CambataForests and trees outside forests protect water and soil resources, contribute to soil development, including fertility, regulate climate, and provide habitat for wild pollinators and the predators of agricultural pests. They represent safety nets in case of shocks and increase households' resilience to food insecurity. Environmental degradation compromises the ability of lands and resources to support food security.

A landscape approach to natural resource management can contribute to achieving long-term food resilience. Agroforestry, the integration of trees with annual crop cultivation, livestock production and other farm activities, is an important element of this approach.