Agricultural Landscapes – Tangible and Intangible values of Cultural Landscapes

Agricultural landscapes, shaped by natural, agronomic, and intangible factors, offer both tangible and intangible values that must be sustainably managed. This study highlights the importance of considering these landscapes as living cultural assets, requiring approaches that go beyond conservation to include economic viability, transmission of farming practices, and systemic collaboration among stakeholders. Four case studies—including the UNESCO-listed Lavaux vineyard terraces in Switzerland—demonstrate how complex irrigation systems, sediment management, wooded pastures, and terraced vineyards integrate ecological, agronomic, and cultural dimensions. The research proposes four key recommendations for sustainable management: treating landscapes as dynamic entities, ensuring economic health, preserving intangible practices, and adopting inclusive, systemic approaches involving farmers and other actors.

Reynard, E. (2023). Agricultural Landscapes – Tangible and Intangible values of Cultural Landscapes. The Overarching Issues of the European Area - Moving towards Efficient Societies and Sustainable Ecosystems, 89–103. https://doi.org/10.21747/978-989-9082-88-5/ovea7