Carbon accounting in European agroforestry systems – Key research gaps and data needs

In simplest terms, agroforestry involves growing trees on farms for a range of socio-economic and ecological benefits. Agroforestry as a land management technique has been practiced for thousands of years. As climate change and environmental impacts of agricultural intensification have become increasingly evident in recent years, agroforestry has garnered renewed scientific and public interest. Indeed, due to trees´ high carbon sequestration potential, their integration into cropland has been highlighted as a promising natural solution for climate change mitigation. In this context, we review research gaps and data needs that constitute barriers to increased agroforestry implementation and improved carbon accounting in temperate regions, with a focus on Europe. A lack of clear agroforestry classification systems, as well as methodological and logistical constraints, emerge as key challenges. We provide recommendations to address these issues and identify future research areas which should be prioritized to support climate change mitigation and agricultural system resilience through agroforestry expansion.