Operationalizing an innovative systems approach for breeding agroforestry trees

The technical report addresses the adoption of a systems approach to agroforestry tree husbandry, highlighting the importance of considering the diversity of tree characteristics, uses, users and production contexts. Evidence is presented on the need to adopt this approach to address global challenges such as climate change, soil restoration, biodiversity conservation and food security. The application of the tree diversity approach at the forest-agriculture interface is also highlighted and measures to support its adoption in tree breeding are proposed. Four key trends are mentioned that require combined responses in tree breeding: stakeholder involvement, focus on the environment, advances in biotechnology and evolving markets. In addition, it also makes an assessment in the genetic improvement of trees through the application of linkage approaches and the use of mobile applications for the evaluation and improvement of indigenous fruit trees. The opportunity to use these applications to link biodiversity conservation with conservation credits is highlighted. The report highlights the need to support the adoption of a systems approach to tree breeding through policy interventions. It is suggested that policies should provide incentives for researchers and tree breeders to adopt broader values in tree breeding and promote diversification of crop options that are competitive in the marketplace and promote human nutrition, biodiversity, resilience and sustainability. In addition, it highlights the importance of investing in research, training and infrastructure to facilitate the implementation of genetically diverse tree breeding initiatives at local, regional and national levels. Collaboration between research institutions, government agencies, farmer organizations and private sector actors is critical to ensure the successful adoption and scaling up of these innovative approaches.