Drylands, spanning over 40% of the Earth's surface, sustain two billion people, half the global livestock population, and rich biodiversity. They are crucial carbon reservoirs but are highly susceptible to land degradation, emphasizing the need for sustainable management. Silvopastoral systems (SPS) present a promising approach to balance productivity with environmental gains. However, the carbon sequestration potential of SPS in drylands remains underexplored. To address this knowledge gap, the FAO, in partnership with the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, has launched a comprehensive global assessment on enhancing carbon sequestration in drylands through SPS. This initiative aims to provide evidence-based strategies for sustainable planning, management, and restoration of drylands. This study encompasses an integrative methodology combining literature reviews, case studies, and scenario modelling to evaluate current carbon reserves and forecast future potential under varying intensification, climatic, and policy contexts. Outputs include a guide to best practices and a robust monitoring framework. These efforts will culminate in a detailed report offering actionable recommendations for policymakers, government bodies, and institutions. Collaboration with the FAO's Committee on Forestry (COFO) will ensure the development of tailored, country-specific strategies to maximize the sequestration potential of drylands via SPS. Countries will receive targeted support for designing and implementing SPS as tools for Sustainable Land Management, contributing to climate mitigation, resilience, and livelihood enhancement. This paper highlights the findings so far, emphasizing evidence, best practices, and lessons learned. It underscores the potential of SPS to enhance carbon sequestration while supporting sustainable management and restoration. By focusing on practical strategies for leveraging SPS, it will underpin actionable recommendations to address climate adaptation and mitigation challenges, fostering the rejuvenation of these critical ecosystems and strengthening global resilience against climate change.
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