Methodological and Conceptual Issues in the Study of Multifunctionality and Rural Development

Abstract

A careful analysis of the scale and depth of the more recent changes in rural areas reveals the contours of a new development trajectory. The key features of this trajectory are diversity and multifunctionality: diversity reflected in the actors involved, the particular activities undertaken and the patterns of motivation that emerge, and multifunctionality in the simultaneous and interrelated provision of different functions ( Van der Ploeg et al. 2000). Researchers involved in rural development face a two-fold challenge. First, they must improve their understanding of multifunctionality and, second and more practically, they must acquire insights into the complex and interrelated processes that contribute to the development of rural areas.The aim of this article is to outline the complexity of those rural development processes that specifically relate to the phenomenon of multifunctionality. An attempt is made to structure the various patterns of multifunctionality found in the European countryside, and different levels of multifunctionality, key changes, linkages and influences have been identified. More specifically, an attempt is made to find adequate ways of unraveling and visualizing the complex interrelationships and changes involved in the rural development process. In addition, we have tried to improve our understanding of these interrelationships taking into account their spatial and temporal dimensions. Finally, we have tried to identify the data needed for a quantitative assessment of the changes taking place at the different levels of farm, farm household, other rural enterprises, region, multipliers, and substitution effects. In the discussion reference is made to several case studies from the impact research programme. 1 Using 'multifunctionality schemes' as a methodological instrument'Multifunctionality schemes' (mf-schemes) essentially 'map' the functional relationships underlying rural development processes and provide insight into the specific reconfigurations in the use of resources such as land, labour, knowledge and nature. By using these schemes we can unravel and visualize the logic, mechanisms and impacts of rural development processes. The main aim is to identify and provide

Paths to developing multifunctional agriculture: insights for rural development policies

“…Our choice derives from the consideration that these services, though not strictly connected with agricultural activity, are frequently associated with the development of the multifunctional aspects of farms. In this sense, our analysis is to be considered as part of the wider approach to multifunctionality (Knickel and Renting, 2000;Renting et al, 2008;Van der Ploeg, 2003).…”

“…On the other hand, in the context of relations between agriculture and society (Knickel and Renting, 2000;, a 'wider' approach to multifunctionality emerges, which contemplates products of the food and non-food market, even those not closely connected with agricultural activity (Renting et al, 2008). As regards the former, attention is focused mainly on food quality, both as an expression of territorial specificity, and as a result of production processes that are respectful of the natural environment, the landscape and animal well-being.…”

“…Many authors agree that multifunctionality can be a promising framework of analysis of transformations in agriculture and rural areas (Cairol et al, 2005(Cairol et al, , 2009Knickel and Renting, 2000;Renting et al, 2008;Wilson, 2007). The term multifunctionality refers to the role of the agricultural sector which, together with the production of food and fibres, provides a series of social, environmental and ethical services demanded by society but not necessarily remunerated by the market (OECD, 2001(OECD, , 2003.…”

Food and Gastronomy for Sustainable Place Development: A Multidisciplinary Analysis of Different Theoretical Approaches

“…In this context, rural development experiences may create connections between local and regional ecosystems of goods and services, alternative supply chains and the diversification of agricultural activities, particularly at the level of the countryside and its actors, resulting in a reconfiguration of "the way rural resources are used within the farm and between agriculture and other rural activities" [26] (p. 513).…”

“…Heritage represents the link between past and present and "a reservoir of meaning necessary to understand the world: a resource to elaborate alterity and consequently identity" [59] (pp. [26][27]. Food tourism is considered sustainable when it sustains activities, persons and institutions in harmony with a place's other elements, such as natural resources, history, and sociocultural values [98].…”