We still lack a systematic understanding of how all different elements impact each other, how they compete for resources and how they can share resources. We also lack a systematic understanding of how policies and practices designed to benefit one element might impact another, and whether those impacts are bad or good. And we lack a systematic understanding of whether what works today, will also work tomorrow. Landscapes are not just complex – they are dynamic and are changing fast. We can start by seeking out synergies and then concentrate investment into those areas to maximize benefits. CCAFS has already been making much head-way using this tactic.
Or we can work from the other end, focus on the worst-case scenarios and work backwards to minimize risk, explained Elwyn Grainger Jones of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), speaking at a special discussion forum at Global Landscape Day on Farm and smallholder opportunities: Synergies and opportunities for integrating agriculture, trees and forests.
By Lucy Holt.
Photo credit: The World Bank
