A co-funded SHOWCASE study was recently conducted, bringing together experts in agriculture, ecology and policy to explore the potential of perennial crops in sustainable farming. Authored by project partner CSIC, alongside CIRAD, UFZ, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, China Agricultural University, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, INRAE, Universidad Veracruzana, Nanyang Technological University, CIFOR, IPB University, Universidad Nacional de Río Negro, University of Oxford and University of Michigan, the study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how perennial crops can contribute to biodiversity conservation, rural livelihoods, and global sustainability efforts. By addressing key challenges and opportunities, the research offers valuable insights for policymakers, farmers and stakeholders invested in the future of agriculture.

The study examined both the benefits and challenges of perennial crop systems, particularly their potential to improve soil health, sequester carbon and enhance habitat connectivity, alongside threats such as deforestation and land degradation. Additionally, it identified gaps in agricultural policies and legislation concerning perennial crops and proposed targeted policy interventions, economic incentives and international trade regulations to encourage sustainable practices. Ultimately, the research sought to stimulate scientific inquiry, policy discussions and stakeholder engagement to better integrate perennial crops into global sustainability efforts.

Perennial crops, such as fruit and nut trees, coffee, cocoa and oil palm, span 183 million hectares globally, often overlapping with key biodiversity hotspots. While their cultivation can contribute to habitat destruction, sustainable management can mitigate biodiversity loss, prevent soil erosion and improve ecosystem connectivity. However, their role in sustainability is largely overlooked in agricultural policies, leading to deforestation, land degradation and excessive pesticide use. To fully harness their potential for achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals, policies should promote biodiversity-friendly farming, stricter land-use planning and financial incentives such as certification programs and sustainable market support. Hence, the study advocates for targeted regulations, economic incentives and international trade agreements that promote sustainable cultivation while balancing environmental, economic and social priorities.

Read the full study here.