Agroforestry – regenerating landscapes and diversifying production in Europe
European agriculture needs to evolve in the face of climate change, a reduction in the abundance of insects and farmland birds, pollution, and the need to improve human health. Greater and more effective use of agroforestry, the integration of woody perennials with livestock and/or crop production, is a proven means to maintain food production whilst addressing these issues. Agroforestry is an important regenerative agriculture practice which can achieve a greater diversity or quantity of outputs with fewer non-farm inputs, whilst improving a farm’s resilience to climate change. Well-designed agroforestry systems, adapted to local conditions, can also enhance biodiversity and ecosystem services at the landscape level. Nevertheless, the re-adoption of agroforestry in Europe is currently challenging, despite the interest of both farmers and policy makers.
Czechia, at the heart of Europe, is an ideal place for us to come together to address these challenges. Here, we feel that agroforestry is gaining momentum now. It is the home of many intensive farms, where agroforestry can provide a cornerstone for progressive agricultural development and the creation and conservation of economic and environmentally beneficial landscapes. Hence, we invite you to join us in the vibrant city of Brno for the 2024 European Agroforestry Conference, organised by the European Agroforestry Federation. This timely conference will cover research and practical sessions that address the opportunities and challenges in promoting the integration of trees with farming. Discussions in plenary, thematic oral and poster sessions, and workshops will provide participants with new ideas to enhance the role that agroforestry can play in diversifying production, enhancing soil health and biodiversity, addressing climate change, creating profitable businesses, and regenerating landscapes in Europe. The Czech for “Welcome”, is “Vítejte”, and we look forward to welcoming you to Czechia.
Ing. Jakub Houška, Ph.D.
prof. Ing. Bohdan Lojka, Ph.D.