Agroforestry carbon-farming for the sustainable use and protection of water resources

Policy Briefing 64-v2 has updated the formatting, summary and title of v1, but the text is unchanged.  It continues to explore how operators of agroforestry carbon farming projects can align with the EU’s Carbon Removals Certification Framework (CRCF) and EU Sustainable Taxonomy in the area of sustainable use and protectin of water resources. Integrating trees into agricultural landscapes enhances soil water infiltration, reduces surface runoff, and improves moisture retention. While tree canopies lower soil evaporation by providing shade, their transpiration can impact local water tables. Maintaining an intermediate tree density is often optimal for balancing groundwater recharge and vegetation productivity.  The Briefing  highlights distinct water dynamics in two primary agroforestry models. Silvopastoral systems (integrating trees and livestock) utilize shade to reduce animal thermal stress while improving soil structure and extending grazing seasons. Conversely, silvoarable systems (trees and crops) may face water competition, yet they ultimately achieve higher overall resource-use efficiency and offer essential windbreak protection.  The Briefing outlines how EU carbon-farming projects can achieve a “Water Resources Co-benefit Endorsement” on top of their certified carbon credits by implementing a robust Water Management Plan involving catchment or sub-catchment mapping, water balance analysis, risk assessments, and targeted mitigation measures to protect both surface and groundwater bodies.