The exponential growth of human population has resulted in a growing demand for agroforestry goods, which are often obtained by unsustainable exploitation. The extreme exploitation of agroforestry systems often neglects food security and safety, e.g. by using chemical pesticides, which could have important implications on human well-being, economies and societies. For that reason, the overarching goal of this research group will be to contribute: i) to advance the practice of pests and diseases biological control and ii) to explore the biotech potential of mycorrhizae fungi within agroforestry systems, thereby reducing the environmental impact of chemical pesticides, enhancing ecosystem productivity and health, and promoting the long-term sustainability of agroforestry systems in the Azores.