Harnessing the power of grasslands in mixed farming/crop– livestock systems

The escalating demand for food, driven by population growth and urbanization, threatens global agricultural systems. Traditional agricultural policies emphasizing specialization and intensification often degrade ecosystems and heighten pollution risks. In response, sustainable intensification of existing cropland has emerged, yet the potential of grasslands to provide crucial ecosystem services is often overlooked. This chapter advocates for effective grassland management to harness its potential in offering regulating services, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity support. Challenges such as land-use change and intensification threaten grassland resilience. Integrating grasslands into mixed farming systems offers practical solutions, promoting synergies between crop cultivation and livestock rearing for sustainability. Ley systems within cropping practices further enhance food security and ecological resilience. Despite adoption hurdles, strategic grassland management remains pivotal for fostering global agricultural sustainability. This chapter underscores the necessity for concerted efforts in research, policy formulation, and management strategies aimed at optimizing grassland capacities and enhancing agricultural resilience.