|
Three small contrasting villages in the Garrigues,
approximately an hour's drive from Barcelona, form the basis for an
investigation into the economic, social and environmental impact of rural
depopulation in the region. The impact of depopulation in some of the villages
is evident in the loss of services, the number of abandoned fields and
gentrified second homes. Some villages have suffered more than others, and
primary data collection seeks to identify the range of factors responsible.
Primary data collection includes evidence for the decline of
agriculture-related activities, abandoned farmland, and the closure of shops and
other important services. Environmental quality, the impact of second homes and
a rural sustainability index are included in the investigation.
Follow-up classroom work uses primary and secondary census data
to investigate the causes of rural depopulation and their social, economic and
environmental consequences. Students are able to develop a management plan for
the sustainable development of the rural economy.
Rural
depopulation field study
 |
|
L'Albi - a typical village in the Garrigues region
|
| |
|
