1/ Presentation of the topic
Landscapes beyond comparison, abundant natural resources and exceptional habitats and species are just some of the numerous riches that are found exclusively in the mountain areas of Europe. Despite the wild and natural ‘feel’ of these environments European studies show that controlled and sustainable human activity (mainly farming and forestry, but also tourism or area conservation) is essential to the maintenance, management and the promotion of these special places that of great value to all the populations of Europe.
Theme 3 seeks to explore the relationship between economic activity and sustainability in mountain areas and the need to protect rural areas, landscapes and natural resources. In addition to exploring the relationship within each region the component aims to identify a range of best practice models that could be adapted for use across mountainous areas to maximise the potential that the environment has to support sustainable development.
Mountain areas face a number of challenges to cultural, economic and environmental development, not least depopulation and the decline of traditional mountain agriculture. Yet despite these issues, mountain areas have a number of advantages and strengths to help boost economies and drive sustainability. Theme III is simply aimed at exploring one of these – land management in areas of exceptional landscapes.
2/ Presentation of the partners
Scientific coordinator of theme 3: Highland Council
The following partner regions participate in the study:
- ADRAT- Asociacao de Desenvolvimento da Regiao do Alto Tamega, Portugal
- Buskerud fylkeskommune, Norway
- Diputación provincial de Palencia, Spain
- Oppland Fylkeskommune, Norway
- Provincia Autonoma di Trento, Italy
- Provincia di Torino, Italy
- Regione Autonoma Valle D'Aosta, Italy
- Sogn og Fjordane Fyleskommune, Norway
- Telemark Fylkeskommune, Norway
- The Highland Council, UK
Final seminar organised by: Conseil Régional de Rhône- Alpes, France
