AGROFORESTRY AS A CLIMATE-SMART STRATEGY: EXAMINING THE FACTOR AFFECTING FARMERS’ ADOPTION

Over the past few decades, agroforestry production systems have gained significant popularity in Bangladesh, resulting in positive ecological and health impacts for the country. These techniques have become crucial for supporting sustainable agriculture, particularly in the face of global climate change, as they enhance food security, promote food diversity, and create lucrative income sources. The primary objective of this study is to present evidence of the widespread adoption of agroforestry in Bangladesh as a sustainable and climate-smart technology package. Additionally, the study examines investment analysis, factors influencing adoption, and conducts a SWOT analysis of agroforestry methods. The study encompasses a sample of 340 respondents and utilizes a multistage random sampling methodology. The findings reveal that although a majority of farmers (75%) are aware of agroforestry, only a few have actively implemented it. The study incorporates a financial and investment analysis of various combinations of trees and vegetables. Discounted cash flow indicators such as Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR), Net Present Value (NPV), and Internal Rate of Return (IRR) are employed in the analysis. The results demonstrate that agroforestry is a more favorable alternative for farmers considering adoption, as it provides superior BCR, NPV, and IRR. Furthermore, the study utilizes a binary logistic model to identify factors that influence the adoption of agroforestry. It reveals a positive correlation between the likelihood of agroforestry adoption and factors such as larger farm size, younger respondents, and higher education levels, training experiences, more frequent extension visits, and improved market access. The study also employs the Problem Confrontation Index (PCI) to rank and identify the obstacles faced by farmers for practicing agroforestry. Insufficient technical support, inadequate education and training, and lack of skill labour emerge as significant hindrances to agroforestry adoption. This comprehensive investigation provides valuable insights into the prospects and limitations of agroforestry adoption in the examined areas of Bangladesh. The study recommends the widespread adoption of agroforestry practices through focused training programs that can empower farmers with tangible advantages.