Improving the Landscape and Tourism in Marginal Areas: The Case of Land Consolidation Associations in the North-West of Italy

Abstract

Land fragmentation is a factor that limits the development of the agricultural and forestry sector, as well as the ability of operators to reach a profitable economic dimension. This phenomenon also influences the creation of activities and incomes in a negative way in marginal areas. In this context, land consolidation associations (LCA) can be a useful tool in reducing this limitation and promoting better management of the territory by improving the link between the landscape and tourism. This study aims to make a comparison between the different LCAs operating in the north-west of Italy, with a specific focus on differences and similarities amongst LCAs, highlighting each orientation towards the management of the landscape with the purpose of improving tourism development. The research used a survey method; a questionnaire was designed, and a semi-structured interview was conducted with each LCA president. Findings show that land management by LCAs allows the preservation and/or improvement of the landscape and supports the development of agricultural activities such as animal breeding. This kind of landscape-based land management increases the attractiveness of the territory in terms of tourism, stimulating the nature-oriented tourism tools. Therefore, on the one hand, the Piedmontese model supports the landscape and also allows economic and social goals to be reached by tourism solutions, and on the other hand it stimulates the improvement of the environment and the creation of chests of biodiversity.

Sustainable Tourism and Natural Protected Areas: Exploring Local Population Perceptions in a Post-Conflict Scenario

“…Specific attention to the needs and perceptions of fishermen seems necessary, due to their reluctance for a CBT development, since a special care must be taken in order to not displace local economic activities. In a general historical context in which vulnerable local communities have frequently been displaced from areas selected for environmental protection or their access to natural resources has been restricted [69,[86][87][88][89], we highlight the importance of the participation of all local actors in the proposals for land planning and sustainable management of the territory in order to ensure both the social and economic benefits of tourism flow to the communities, as well as the environmental conservation [90][91][92].…”

Study of Heathland Succession, Prescribed Burning, and Future Perspectives at Kringsjå, Norway

“…Heslinga et al [35] highlights tourism as valuable, insofar it encourages contextual sustainable development (SD). Tourism and nature protection initiatives are not isolated from the greater societal context; they depend on public and official awareness, acceptance, and support [71,72]. Following that argument, Heslinga et al [35] identified eight policy recommendations for stimulating synergies between tourism and landscape: understanding the historical institutional context of the region; strive for integrated policy aimed at synergetic interactions; gain an overview of all stakeholders; include all stakeholders; develop a shared story; co-create a vision for the future; allow for flexibility in the local implementation; and dare to experiment.…”

Bridging the Gap between Landscape and Management within Marinas: A Review

“…Marinas are a driving force of economic wealth [10,11]. A characteristic landscape should enhance a territory and its tourist appeal as a tourism image [12][13][14]. Thus, a landscape in a marina including an environmental quality and scenic views should be able to gain economic benefits [15,16].…”