Agroforestry on Small Farms Can Fight Climate Change and Boost Incomes, ICAR Study Finds

A significant research study from eastern India shows that agroforestry practiced on small family farms is not only effective in combating climate change but also strengthens farmers' income and livelihoods. A nine-year study conducted by scientists from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) revealed that a single acre of agroforestry farm can sequester a large amount of carbon without compromising food production.

One Acre, Big Impact

According to the study, one acre of land under agroforestry absorbed 154.5 megagrams (Mg) of carbon dioxide over nine years. Importantly, farmers continued their agricultural activities and earned a good income during this period.

In 2015, scientists from ICAR's Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation (Dehradun and Koraput) initiated this model with 15 farmers in the Eastern Ghats region of Odisha. The model integrated trees with crops on the farmers' existing fields.

Eastern Ghats Region Grappling with Climate Crisis

The Eastern Ghats region is under constant pressure from changing weather patterns. Irregular monsoons, sudden heavy rainfall, and increasing crop failures have made farming risky. This has disproportionately affected tribal communities, where food insecurity and livelihood crises are deepening.

In this context, scientists believe that the 'eco-village' based agroforestry model, which integrates trees, crops, and livestock, is emerging as a sustainable solution. This model addresses nutrition, income, and the environment simultaneously.

Slope Position Determines Carbon Sequestration Capacity

In this study, scientists selected 12 local tree species suitable for the climate of Odisha. These were planted in Maligaon, Durukhal, and Dandabad villages of Rayagada district, and their growth, biomass, and carbon storage were monitored over several years.

The research clearly showed that the slope position of the field plays a crucial role in carbon storage. In the lower slopes, moisture and nutrients are retained more effectively in the soil, leading to better tree growth.

An average of 82 trees per acre were found on the lower slopes, with an average height of approximately 4.27 meters and a canopy spread of 4.5 meters. Carbon sequestration here was recorded at 73.1 Mg CO₂ per acre. In contrast, due to soil erosion and water scarcity on the upper slopes, this figure dropped to 27.2 Mg CO₂ per acre.

Tree selection determines farmer income

This model proved beneficial not only for the environment but also for the farmers' livelihoods. Among the 12 species studied, cashew and mango trees emerged as the most profitable. These trees provide both carbon storage and a good income.

Farmers in the three villages earned between ₹1.10 lakh and ₹1.13 lakh annually from their integrated farms. Mango yields reached 26.4 quintals per farmer in Durukhal and 26.2 quintals per farmer in Maligaon. Cashew yields also remained consistent across all villages.

Importantly, tree planting did not significantly impact the yields of rice, coarse grains, pulses, and vegetables.

Potential for additional income from carbon credits

The study also assessed the potential for carbon credits. Based on current voluntary market rates, assuming a rate of $20 per Mg CO₂, approximately ₹2.56 lakh in carbon credits could be earned from one acre of land over nine years.

However, the scientists clarified that this income would depend on market demand, verification costs, and the registration process. Additionally, these farms emitted 112.4 Mg of oxygen over nine years, providing an added environmental benefit.

Model aligns with India's climate goals

This research also aligns with India's climate commitments under the Paris Agreement, where the country has pledged to achieve 2.5 to 3 billion tons of carbon sequestration. Scientists believe that if such agroforestry models involving small farmers are adopted on a large scale, they can play a significant role in achieving this goal.

Small farm, big solution

This study clearly shows that agroforestry is a robust, sustainable, and profitable path for small farmers. It not only helps combat climate change but also ensures farmers' income, food security, and future sustainability. If such models receive policy support in the future, they could prove to be a game-changer for rural India.

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