Agroforestry and traditional knowledge can help communities in the Pacific become more resilient to climate change, say members of the Pacific Agriculture and Forestry Policy Network (PAFNet).

An article in PNG Loop reports on a recent discussion hosted by PAFNet about the vulnerability of Pacific agriculture and forestry to climate change.

“Traditional agroforestry was mentioned to pave the way to building more resilient communities to combat the negative effects of the changes in climate,” says Brittany Hazelman, moderator of the discussion.

Extreme weather events, increased frequency and intensity of drought, flooding and saline soils, as well as increased incidence of pests and diseases were highlighted as key factors arising from climate change that impact on agriculture in the Pacific region.

PAFNet members stated that greater access to training and awareness will help communities become better prepared.

“Traditional agroforestry practices should be collected, stored, packaged and disseminated to interested parties and safeguarded for the younger generations’ benefit,” says a report on the PAFNet discussion.

Read the full story: Agroforestry to help address Climate Change