| dc.description.abstract | Agricultural and natural ecosystems are major shapers and products of a landscape; over time, the perception of interactions between the two has evolved significantly. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of agriculture's dual role in sustaining both human livelihoods and natural habitats, signaling its potential significance in nature conservation efforts. Moreover, the phenomenon of land abandonment has emerged as a pivotal trend influencing landscapes, particularly in mountainous regions. By exploring local actors’ perceptions of land abandonment within the Trient Valley, a mountainous area in the Swiss Alps currently in the process of becoming a Swiss Regional Natural Park, this study establishes a groundwork for understanding the role that Regional Natural Parks can assume in supporting the agricultural sector to reverse or prevent land abandonment (LA). A reflexive photography approach, combining a photo taking activity, interviews and group discussions, in two distinct segments of study was applied. One part focused on understanding local farmers’ perception of LA through their activities and how Regional Natural Parks can support them. The other part focused on how the potential Regional Natural Parks in the Trient valley can engage non-farmers in the mitigation of LA, by studying their perception of this phenomenon, of its possible mitigation and of their potential role in the latter. It underscored the necessity for collaborative efforts among stakeholders, drawing on local engagement, ecological considerations, and cultural preservation as guiding principles. This study found that Regional Nature Parks can counter land abandonment by fostering understanding, supporting various revitalization strategies and revitalizing the importance of agriculture and cultural heritage among locals and visitors, thus aligning themselves with their overarching objectives of conservation, biodiversity enhancement and sustainable development. | |
