Agroforestry: A Sustainable Strategy for Agrobiodiversity Conservation and Enhancing Rural Livelihoods in Bangladesh

Abstract

This review synthesizes approaches to conserving agrobiodiversity through adopting agroforestry models widely practiced in rural Bangladesh and assesses their relevance for sustainable rural livelihoods. We examine techniques used by rural households employing locally available materials and technologies, and we discuss their roles in sustaining livelihoods. Agroforestry delivers multifunctional benefits, including biodiversity enhancement, soil health improvement, and diversified income. The contribution of agroforestry to agrobiodiversity spans productive, protective, and regulatory functions across rural life. Despite this importance, agrobiodiversity is threatened by mismanagement and inadequate conservation in some areas. Therefore, this review recommends reorientation of practices, establishment of conservation banks, participatory governance of agricultural resources, and alternatives to mismanagement to safeguard and use agrobiodiversity effectively in rural communities.