In:
GAIA - Ecological Perspectives for Science and Society, Oekom Publishers GmbH, Vol. 16, No. 2 ( 2007-06-01), p. 122-129
Abstract:
In the Swiss Alps, as in other European Alpine regions, agricultural decline is leading to land abandonment and natural reforestation, which may have wider implications for a sustainable development of these areas. A sustainability assessment of three scenarios involving discussions
with a local stakeholder group was performed as part of a case study in the Swiss canton of Grisons. The first scenario, called "liberalisation", assumed withdrawal of all agricultural support. A second scenario, called "biodiversity", assumed full replacement of agricultural support by biodiversity payments. These two scenarios were compared with a "trend" scenario, i.e., continuation of current trends. The liberalisation scenario was found to have the most negative consequences on livelihoods as well as social and environmental aspects, and it was completely rejected by the local stakeholder
group. The trend scenario was best received, although it does not substantially contribute to sustainable development. The biodiversity scenario was the most controversial scenario, with positive environmental outcomes but negative cultural and social consequences. Using scenarios in a participatory sustainability assessment was found helpful both as a research technique and for stimulating a debate about the future of European mountain areas.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
0940-5550
DOI:
10.14512/gaia.16.2.13
Language:
English
Publisher:
Oekom Publishers GmbH
Publication Date:
2007
detail.hit.zdb_id:
2901363-X
detail.hit.zdb_id:
2111556-4
detail.hit.zdb_id:
1114994-2
SSG:
14
SSG:
5,21
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