Summary
This systematic review of 200 peer-reviewed articles (2020–2025) synthesises evidence on agroforestry and integrated nutrient management as climate-smart technologies in semi-arid African and Asian regions. The review concludes that agroforestry practices—particularly legume-based systems—improve soil health through enhanced organic matter and structure, whilst sequestering carbon and reducing synthetic fertiliser dependency. Integration of agroforestry with INM strengthens climate resilience, ecosystem services, and crop productivity in water-limited environments.
Regional applicability
The findings focus on semi-arid African and Asian regions and may have limited direct applicability to United Kingdom conditions, which have higher rainfall and different agroecological constraints. However, principles of agroforestry and reduced synthetic fertiliser use align with UK policy on sustainable intensification and net-zero commitments; transferability would require contextualisation to temperate climates and UK soil types.
Key measures
Soil bulk density, soil organic matter, soil structure, nitrogen availability, exchangeable cations, carbon sequestration, greenhouse gas emissions, soil and water conservation, soil fertility, moisture retention
Outcomes reported
The review examined how agroforestry practices (improved fallow, biomass transfer, alley cropping) and integrated nutrient management improve soil health, mitigate climate change, and enhance food security in semi-arid areas. Findings covered soil physical properties, carbon sequestration, greenhouse gas emissions, soil fertility restoration, and water conservation.
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