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The Role of Land Consolidation Associations in Enhancing Mountain Attractiveness: The Case of ASFO Erbezzo

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates the role of Land Consolidation Associations in enhancing the attractiveness of mountain areas, with a focus on the ASFO Erbezzo in Stregna (Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy). Using a mixed-methods approach that combines a quantitative survey with qualitative interviews, the research explores perceptions of the ASFO’s environmental, economic, and social impacts. The findings indicate widespread appreciation for the ASFO’s contributions to landscape restoration, improved land management, and renewed engagement in agro-silvo-pastoral activities. Respondents noted increased safety, enhanced property value, and the symbolic revitalization of the territory. The initiative also fostered social cohesion and community participation, though challenges persist, including uneven engagement, limited services, and reliance on a small core of active individuals. While the ASFO’s contribution to the area’s attractiveness, especially for potential new residents, was generally acknowledged, structural constraints like housing shortages and weak local economies remain barriers. The results highlight the strategic relevance of collective land management for ensuring the sustainable regeneration of mountain areas, thereby contributing to the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals outlined in the 2030 Agenda.

Source: Sustainability

DOI: 10.3390/su17188275

Authors: Lucia Montefiori, Ivana Bassi, Rossella Dosso, Viviana Ferrario, Luca Iseppi

Institutions: University of Udine, Università Iuav di Venezia

Language: English

Topic: Rural development and sustainability

Subfield: General Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Life on land, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896