Agroforestry for Landscape Restoration and Livelihood Development in Central Asia

This paper discusses how the adoption of agroforestry for ecosystem and livelihood improvement in Central Asian countries can be enhanced. First, it describes how previous and current developments lead to changing environmental conditions, and how these changing conditions consequently affected the welfare of people. Environmental issues on a global level, such as climate change, also threaten people’s livelihoods. Using examples from different Central Asian countries, and relying on interdisciplinary methods, the case for agroforestry is made as an option to rehabilitate and create environmental and social resilience. It demonstrates that various agroforestry systems are suitable for various agro-ecological and socio-economic areas in the region. Finally, by identifying current constraints and revealing opportunities, the paper aims to inform and provide recommendations for policy and decision makers and researchers about the potential of applying agroforestry in Central Asia.