Synergistic Development of Biodiversity Conservation and Food Security in Tropical Island Eco-Agricultural Systems

Abstract:

This study focuses on the synergistic development of biodiversity conservation and food security in tropical island eco-agricultural systems, addressing the unique challenges of limited land resources, high ecological sensitivity, and vulnerability to climate change (e.g., typhoons, sea-level rise) in tropical island regions. Employing a mixed-methods approach—including field surveys (1,800 farms across 6 tropical island regions), ecological modeling (InVEST model, 2021–2024), and participatory action research—we identify key conflicts and synergies between biodiversity conservation and food production: (1) monoculture plantations (e.g., palm oil, sugarcane) reduce local plant diversity by 45–55% but contribute 60–70% of island food supply; (2) traditional agroforestry systems maintain 80–90% of native biodiversity but have 20–30% lower crop yields than monocultures; (3) climate change-induced extreme events (typhoons, droughts) reduce both biodiversity (15–20% loss of pollinator species) and food production (25–35% yield decline). We evaluate five eco-agricultural practices: diversified agroforestry (mixing food crops with native trees), pollinator-friendly hedgerows, rainwater harvesting + organic farming, intercropping of staple crops with nitrogen-fixing plants, and community-managed conservation areas. Results show that diversified agroforestry increases native plant diversity by 35–45% and improves crop yield stability by 30% (reducing typhoon-induced losses), while pollinator-friendly hedgerows boost pollinator abundance by 50–60% and increase fruit crop yields by 25%. Regional case studies (Hainan Island, China; Seychelles; Trinidad and Tobago) reveal context-specific barriers: limited access to organic fertilizers (Hainan), lack of community governance mechanisms (Seychelles), and insufficient market channels for eco-friendly crops (Trinidad and Tobago). The study concludes that integrated interventions—such as organic input subsidies, community-based conservation training, and eco-labeled crop markets—can increase the adoption rate of biodiversity-friendly practices by 40% while maintaining or increasing food self-sufficiency rates by 15%. These findings provide a scientific basis for balancing ecological protection and food security in tropical island eco-agricultural systems, supporting the achievement of UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 2, 13, 15).