Silvopastoralism as an Agroforestry Systems: Survey Analysis of Perceptions in the Agricultural Sector of Trás-os-Montes region, Portugal

Dias, Estefânia; Ribeiro, Maria Isabel; Castro, Marina

http://hdl.handle.net/10198/34674

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Authors

Dias, Estefânia

Ribeiro, Maria Isabel

Castro, Marina

Abstract(s)

Silvopastoralism, as a traditional agroforestry practice that combines extensive livestock production with forestry, offering both economic and environmental benefits, has been losing prominence, thus compromising the ecosystem services it provides. This research arises from the need to understand the obstacles to its adoption in Trás-os-Montes, a region marked by vulnerability to rural wildfires and demographic desertification. Despite the scientific recognition of the environmental and social benefits of silvopastoralism, there remains a significant gap in knowledge regarding the perceptions and challenges experienced by producers in its implementation. Based on the SILFORE project, this study involved 60 face-to-face surveys with various stakeholders in the agroforestry sector in the Trás-os-Montes region. The objective was to identify perceptions of the usefulness of silvopastoralism and the main constraints to its application. The data collected were statistically analyzed using frequency measures and measures of central tendency. The results reveal a clear appreciation for the role of silvopastoralism in wildfire prevention, biodiversity conservation, and the preservation of native breeds. However, factors such as low economic profitability, lack of technical support, and the absence of tailored public policies compromise its viability. It is concluded that the revitalization of silvopastoralism depends on integrated strategies involving technical assistance, institutional recognition, and the valorisation of associated products—contributing to the resilience of rural territories.

Keywords

Silvopastoralism Biodiversity Rural development Sustainability.

URI

http://hdl.handle.net/10198/34674

Citation

Dias, E., Ribeiro, M.I.B., Castro, M. (2025). Silvopastoralism as an Agroforestry Systems: Survey Analysis of Perceptions in the Agricultural Sector of Trás-os-Montes region, Portugal. In 45th International Business Information Management Association Conference (IBIMA). p. 1328-1338. ISBN 979-8-9867719-6-0