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Integrating Local Food Policies and Spatial Planning to Enhance Food Systems and Rural–Urban Links: A Living Lab Experiment

Author

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  • Francesca Galli

    (Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy)

  • Sabrina Arcuri

    (Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy)

  • Giovanni Belletti

    (Department of Economics and Management, University of Florence, 59100 Florence, Italy)

  • Andrea Marescotti

    (Department of Economics and Management, University of Florence, 59100 Florence, Italy)

  • Michele Moretti

    (Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy)

  • Massimo Rovai

    (Department of Civil Engineering, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy)

Abstract

The development of synergies between rural and urban areas is one of the EU’s objectives to contribute to smart and inclusive growth. Effective governance of rural–urban links is essential for balanced development but often lacks policy coherence. This study examines the role of spatial planning and food policy integration in enhancing local food system sustainability and resilience, specifically in peri-urban areas. It investigates challenges and enablers in this integration through a Living Lab experiment in Lucca (Italy) as part of the ROBUST H2020 project. The Living Lab methodology entailed envisioning, experimenting, and experiencing phases to identify key rural–urban connections and assess governance arrangements, focusing on reclaiming abandoned land in peri-urban areas together with local stakeholders. By highlighting the strengths and limitations of a multi-year collaborative research approach, the research highlights a weak recognition of rural–urban linkages and the need for improved dialogue between rural stakeholders and urban planners. Key recommendations comprise formalising public–private partnerships and cross-sectoral projects linking agriculture with education, tourism, and landscape (e.g., agricultural parks).

Suggested Citation

  • Francesca Galli & Sabrina Arcuri & Giovanni Belletti & Andrea Marescotti & Michele Moretti & Massimo Rovai, 2024. "Integrating Local Food Policies and Spatial Planning to Enhance Food Systems and Rural–Urban Links: A Living Lab Experiment," Land, MDPI, vol. 13(12), pages 1-23, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jlands:v:13:y:2024:i:12:p:2014-:d:1529620
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    References listed on IDEAS

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