Perception of Ecosystem Services from Podolian Farming System in Marginal Areas of Southern Italy

Abstract

Ecosystem services (ESs) are gaining increasing interest among researchers, local communities, and policymakers. The farming of Podolian cattle in the remote and marginal areas of southern Italy plays an important socio-economic role. This study aimed to assess the perception of ESs provided by Podolian cattle farming in the Basilicata region among the local actors and stakeholders. Using a questionnaire administered to 198 respondents, the level of agreement and disagreement was assessed on a 1–5 scale for the four main ESs: cultural, regulating, supporting, and provisioning. On average, the perception of ESs related to Podolian cattle farming was positive. However, the role of promoting tourism in the region was somewhat controversial, and the results in terms of regulation were divisive. The perception of provisioning services had a highly positive result. Further research is needed to better understand the role of Podolian cattle farming in the Basilicata region, providing more explicit guidance for local communities and policymakers.

Sustainability Potential of Marginal Areas for Food, Feed, and Non-Food Production in the Puglia Region, Southern Italy: Part II: A Review

“…As a result, eco-certification is becoming a popular tool for reducing environmental impacts [80]. MAs like mountain areas have unique values such as scenery, biodiversity, water reserves, and cultural resources that require protection from harmful development pressures [81]. Therefore, eco-certification can be applied to agricultural products and byproducts coming from these areas to promote their conservation and revitalization prospects.…”