Agroforestry systems measures in Italy: an explorative analysis of policy effectiveness

Agroforestry systems represent a multifunctional land-use approach capable of enhancing numerous ecosystem services, including biodiversity, soil conservation, and climate resilience, as well as promoting farm income diversification by fostering sustainable quality production. However, despite active policy support since 2007 under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), their adoption in Italy remains limited. This study investigates the reasons behind the low uptake of agroforestry measures across three CAP programming periods through a sequential mixed-method design, starting with a financial and policy analysis to outline the implementation framework, followed by survey-based econometric modeling to explore behavioral and institutional factors. The financial analysis reveals a limited implementation framework (25%) and low expenditure levels, with only a few regions effectively activating the agroforestry systems measures. To better understand the underlying reasons for this low participation, an econometric model was developed based on a questionnaire administered to agricultural and forestry entrepreneurs. The model identified four variables significantly associated with the willingness to apply for agroforestry measures. The results suggest that awareness, technical capacity, and direct experience are key factors for adoption, while limited knowledge, bureaucratic complexity, and insufficient economic incentives constitute the main barriers. Strengthening training, communication, and policy coherence could therefore promote agroforestry adoption in future CAP cycles.