Forest, bamboo, and agroforestry systems for climate change adaptation in coffee farms of Colombia

The Andes region of Colombia, known for its extensive coffee cultivation, also holds the country’s largest areas of successional forest. This analysis evaluated the use of forest, bamboo, and agroforestry systems in coffee farms as part of an agroecological transition strategy. The research was carried out in three municipalities on the Popayán plateau, located in the Department of Cauca in southwestern Colombia. Using a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods – including the Shade Tree Advice tool to assess ecosystem service provision – the study examined how these systems are integrated into the livelihoods of coffee-growing families. The results confirmed that these farms, managed by peasant families, use a diversified approach to land use that balances ecological sustainability with economic needs. Most farms incorporate successional forests, bamboo groves, and agroforestry systems as part of their adaptation strategies to the growing risks posed by climate change. Local knowledge played a key role in identifying the tree species that support ecosystem services essential to coffee farming. Leguminous and fruit trees are most commonly used to provide ecosystem support, including regulation and supply functions. Other native species are additionally used for shade and live fences. These results are valuable for selecting tree species for propagation in nurseries, planting on farms, and providing shade for coffee crops. Likewise, they strengthen the agroecological transition processes, support the certification of farms and contribute to improving the income of coffee-growing families and organisations.