Silvopastoral Systems: a Sustainable Livestock Farming Strategy for the Ecuadorian Amazon

Objective: Silvopastoral systems (SPS) integrate trees and shrubs into pasturelands, offering a sustainable alternative to extensive livestock farming, which drives deforestation and biodiversity loss in the Ecuadorian Amazon. Theoretical Framework: This study is grounded in the principles of sustainable agriculture and agroecology, emphasizing the integration of ecological processes into agricultural systems to achieve environmental, economic, and social sustainability. The silvopastoral system (SPS) aligns with agroecological theories, which advocate for biodiversity enhancement, resource efficiency, and resilience in farming landscapes. Method: This review analyzes scientific literature on silvopastoral systems (SPS) in the Ecuadorian Amazon, focusing on their ecological, economic, and social impacts. Peer-reviewed articles, case studies, and reports were sourced from databases like Scopus and Web of science. Key topics include deforestation, biodiversity conservation, soil fertility, and barriers to adoption. The findings synthesize current knowledge to identify gaps and propose strategies for promoting SPS implementation. Results and Discussion: Inspired by Indigenous systems like the Kichwa chakra, SPS promote ecological balance while increasing livestock productivity and diversifying agricultural outputs. These systems also address rising demands for meat and dairy in Ecuador, which have grown by 3.5% annually over the past decade. Despite their ecological and economic benefits, adoption remains low, with only 15% of smallholders implementing SPS. Research Implications: This study underscores the potential of silvopastoral systems to mitigate deforestation, enhance biodiversity, and sequester carbon while increasing agricultural productivity. However, it reveals significant barriers to adoption, including financial constraints, lack of awareness, and limited technical support. Originality/Value: This study highlights the unique role of silvopastoral systems (SPS) in addressing deforestation and biodiversity loss in the Ecuadorian Amazon while enhancing livestock productivity. Unlike conventional pasture-based models, SPS integrate native tree species and shrubs, aligning modern agricultural practices with traditional indigenous knowledge, such as the Kichwa chakra system. This approach not only improves soil fertility and carbon sequestration but also strengthens ecosystem resilience. By analyzing adoption barriers and proposing targeted policy interventions, this research contributes to the growing discourse on sustainable livestock management. Its findings offer valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, and local communities seeking to balance economic growth with environmental conservation.