Session: Mountain agroforestry, traditional crops, and livelihoods in the Hindu Kush Himalaya

The Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) are a global asset with rich cultural and biological diversity. There are diverse ecosystems and natural resources are plentiful. However, limited accessibility and remoteness mean the region is also characterized by poverty.

Traditional agroforestry systems and crops play important roles in mountain livelihoods. However, with changes in climate and socioeconomic dynamics, these systems and crops have become “neglected”. Innovative approaches to managing mountain agroforestry systems while conserving traditional crops are important, as the subsistence and livelihoods of mountain people are based on agricultural systems.

This session is designed to generate a discussion on managing a traditional mountain agroforestry system while conserving traditional crops.

Session Objectives:

• Understand the mountain agroforestry system and its role in mountain livelihoods.
• Debate on research-policy to conserve and manage mountain agroforestry and traditional crops.
• Ensure common consensus on managing a traditional mountain agroforestry system and conserving traditional crops.