Carbon dynamics and greenhouse gas mitigation in integratedcrop-livestock-forestry systems: a narrative review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70597/vozes.v14i29.1445Keywords:
ICLF, soil carbon, greenhouse gas emissions, sustainable intensification, tropical agroecosystemsAbstract
ntegrated crop-livestock-forestry (ICLF) systems have been recognized as a promising strategy to reconcile agricultural production
and environmental sustainability in tropical regions. These systems integrate crop, livestock, and forestry components within
the same area, promoting greater resource-use efficiency, production diversification, and the provision of ecosystem services.
This study aimed to critically analyze the role of ICLF systems in sustainable intensification and climate change mitigation, with
emphasis on productivity, soil carbon stocks, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and carbon balance. The narrative review was
conducted based on studies carried out under tropical conditions, with particular emphasis on the Brazilian Cerrado. Overall, the
results indicate that ICLF systems improve soil physical, chemical, and biological attributes, increase soil organic carbon stocks,
and enhance the resilience of production systems compared with conventional systems or degraded areas. These effects are
associated with greater organic residue inputs, functional diversity of species, and improvements in soil structure. However, the
magnitude of these benefits varies according to system design, management practices, and edaphoclimatic conditions. In addition,
trade-offs related to increased N2O and CH4 emissions may occur in more intensified systems. It is concluded that ICLF systems
have considerable potential for low-carbon agriculture, although their benefits depend on appropriate management strategies and
local implementation conditions
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