In 2025, agroforestry systems are set to be initiated in several communities across four Armenian regions: Balak in Sisian, Syunik; Ttujur in Aparan, Aragatsotn; Lernavan in Spitak, Lori; and Mets Mantash in Artik, Shirak. These efforts are part of "Forest Restoration and Climate Change Adaptation in Armenia" (FORACCA) project, supported by the Swiss Cooperation Office (SDC) and partner organizations. A research team from Armenia's National Agrarian University (ANAU) is conducting studies to design and implement these agroforestry systems.
Artur Alaverdyan, a lecturer at ANAU and an expert for FORACCA, explained, "The project integrates forestry and agriculture in one area, supporting agricultural production processes and providing both economic and environmental benefits. Agroforestry systems are a key component of sustainable agriculture."
Agroforestry reduces environmental impacts, enhances productivity, creates stable agro-ecosystems, and addresses various social and economic issues. The first agroforestry conference in Armenia was recently held as part of FORACCA project.
Senior Adviser to the Prime Minister Hambardzum Matevosyan welcomed participants, noting the importance of addressing environmental challenges, while Deputy Minister of Environment Aram Meymaryan highlighted the role of agroforestry in improving soil structure, increasing moisture retention, and reducing erosion.
Ursula LÄUBLI, Deputy Regional Director Swiss Cooperation Office for the South Caucasus and also Deputy Ambassador of Switzerland in Armenia, thanked the conference organizers, emphasizing the discussion on agroforestry challenges. Acting ANAU Rector Hrachya Zakoyan remarked on the sector’s potential for aligning environmental, economic, and social goals.
Key speakers included Patrick Worms, President of the International Union of Agroforestry (IUAF), who presented the importance of agroforestry, and Bohdan Loyka, President of the European Agroforestry Federation (EURAF), who discussed the current state of agroforestry in Europe.
November 07, 2024 at 16:00