The AF4EU project has generated key results that have the potential to significantly boost the adoption of agroforestry (AF) practices across Europe by understanding for the first time the diverse value chains linked to the multi-product agroforestry systems. These value chains integrated the co-creation processes linked to the multi-actor approach to further develop in the sedond part of the project digital tools, and business models to provide essential resources for farmers, advisors, and policymakers to incorporate agroforestry into sustainable agricultural systems. These efforts address challenges such as limited knowledge, lack of practical business models, and weak policy frameworks that have traditionally hindered the widespread adoption of AF practices. To facilate agroforestry further adoption and upscaling, the first period of AF4EU was also focussed on analysing the main preferences with regard to the materials to be produced (format, type, etc..) that will be created in the next steps. Moreover, upscaling will be based on the development of the first international agroforestry advisory system linked to the CECRA soft skills development targeted to each rain but also associated with the organization of the technical information to be produced and integrated in an open and easy-to-use and follow MOOC (Multilingual open online course) tool,
The creation of the AF4EU Knowledge Platform (KP), which combines the Alive Handbook, the AFI-Bus Decision Support System (DSS), and Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), will be the most remarkable outcome for the second period of the project. The website will act as a central location for readily available, useful information on agroforestry, enabling users to decide on business models, land management, and carbon footprint estimations through knowledge. Furthermore, the establishment of Regional Agroforestry Innovation Networks (RAINs) has made it easier for stakeholders to share knowledge and collaborate resulted in the identification of 33 model AF farms and value chains that show the profitability of AF techniques. The environmental and financial advantages of agroforestry systems are further highlighted by the sustainability evaluation of these farms.
Several crucial demands must be met in order to guarantee continued uptake and success. In order to improve AF business models and present practical implementations in various locations, further research and demonstration projects are required. Obtaining investment and market access are necessary for AF systems to be economically feasible. This entails ensuring that farmers are able to market their AF goods and obtain funding for the initial installation of AF systems. In order to include agroforestry into agricultural policies and provide incentives for its adoption, policymakers must establish a regulatory framework that is supportive of the practice. International cooperation and knowledge sharing will also support the globalization of AF practices. During the first period of the project, the understanding of the former CAP and the new Strategic Plans
The AF4EU Knowledge Platform will be completely operational by project's conclusion, including online resources and digital technologies to assist in the adoption of agroforestry. The validated business models and value chains will offer infographics of how AF systems may be both environmentally and economically feasible, and the RAIN networks will keep promoting innovation and knowledge sharing. All things considered, AF4EU will have established a strong basis for the widespread adoption of agroforestry, contributing to the development of more sustainable agricultural landscapes throughout Europe.
