Conversion of intensive agricultural systems to dynamic agroforestry systems for sustainable cocoa production in Ecuador

The project Conversion of Intensive Cocoa Systems to Dynamic Agroforestry Systems DAF in Ecuador aims to transform conventional cocoa systems to free exposure and other crops. This will be carried out using Dynamic Agroforestry Systems (DAF) in small cocoa plots in different regions of Ecuador, benefiting approximately 600 associated producers in the UNOCACE (Unión de Organizaciones Campesinas Cacaotereas, in Spanish, cooperative). This system makes it possible to increase the productivity of cocoa cultivation and diversify production through the introduction of timber trees and food crops. In addition, it generates increased income for producers through the sale of organic cocoa and the production is more stable.