Bamboo-based agroforestry systems: a nature-based solution for degraded land restoration

Abstract

Land degradation is a pressing global challenge that undermines ecosystem health, biodiversity, agricultural productivity, and human well-being. Nature-based Solutions (NbS), particularly bamboo-based agroforestry systems, are increasingly recognized for their potential to restore degraded landscapes while enhancing climate resilience and supporting sustainable development. Owing to its rapid growth, high biomass production, extensive root system, and wide ecological adaptability, bamboo plays a vital role in improving soil fertility, increasing organic carbon, reducing erosion, conserving soil moisture, and supporting biodiversity conservation. Its integration into agricultural systems further enhances land productivity, diversifies rural income sources, and strengthens livelihood resilience. Bamboo-based systems also deliver multiple ecosystem services, including carbon sequestration, watershed protection, bioenergy production, and provision of sustainable raw materials, thereby contributing to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Despite these benefits, wider adoption remains constrained by limited empirical synthesis, inadequate availability of quality planting material, weak market linkages, and policy gaps. This review critically synthesizes existing knowledge on bamboo-based agroforestry systems, focusing on their ecological, economic, and social contributions to degraded land restoration, climate change mitigation, biodiversity enhancement, livelihood improvement, and sustainable development. The findings highlight bamboo-based agroforestry as a promising, climate-resilient, and multifunctional strategy for sustainable land restoration.