Nuevas funciones y desarrollos de los territorios rurales europeossu necesaria adaptación a métodos de producción duraderos y sostenibles

Abstract

Over recent decades, European rural areas have been subjected to major changes. These were aimed at correcting their imbalances and at avoiding any increased break-up of their territorial structures, while at the same time maintaining their social and economic cohesion. These measures fulfil various functions and constitute a basis for achieving relevant integrated rural development. In this, multi-functionality of land and diversification of production must become fundamental objectives in addressing new orientations and designing initiatives and alternatives for the development of rural zones. These should match current social demands and long-term production methods, as well as the principles of sustainable rural development.