Research project AGROMIX

AGROMIX: AGROforestry and MIXed farming systems

The European project AGROMIX started at the end of 2020 and focuses during a 4-year period on farming systems that combine livestock production, plant production and/or the planting of woody perennials. The research should clarify the economic and climate resilience, the provision of ecosystem services and the carbon balance of mixed systems.

The aim of AGROMIX, which stands for “AGROforestry and MIXed farming systems”, is to conduct participatory research to stimulate the transition to resilient and efficient land use in Europe. AGROMIX will provide practical agro-ecological solutions for agriculture and land management, and for related value chains, where mixed farming systems (combinations of animal and crop production) and/or some form of agroforestry are being implemented.

At the scientific level, the project group aims to remove uncertainties in assessing economic and climate resilience, the provision of ecosystem services and the carbon balance in such complex land uses. To maximise impact, AGROMIX will explore the potential of new approaches and technologies, such as serious games, to foster innovation in highly diverse contexts.

ILVO has an important coordinating role in work package 2, in which changes in animal and woody components are initiated in twelve European codesign pilots. These can be existing companies, but also cooperative structures or stakeholder groups. The pilots will take place in real-life conditions, involving all relevant stakeholders in the participatory design process and the implementation of innovative forms of mixed farming and agroforestry. One of these pilots is situated in Flanders and is linked to PHAE, the Hansbeke Agro-Ecology Project.

In a first round, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, France, Italy (dry Mediterranean climate) and also Belgium are involved. After 2 years of intensive monitoring, the second round will also officially start in the United Kingdom, Poland, Serbia, Italy (humid Mediterranean climate), Portugal and Spain. In the second round, the lessons learned from the first round will already be incorporated. In addition, the pilots will provide input for other work packages.

The experiences of the pilots will be monitored, reported and compiled so that they form an inspiring guideline for sustainable agriculture throughout Europe.

Agroforestry strips @PHAE

More information? jolien.bracke@ilvo.vlaanderen.be - https://agromixproject.eu

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Financing