Importance of Conservation of the Rural Areas
Urbanization and suburban sprawl, industrialization, intensive agriculture and globalization have dramatically changed the rural areas in both their appearance and character. Conservation of the rural areas is of national importance for several reasons which is why it is crucial to conserve the areas which managed to retain their distinct character. In addition, the areas that were not transformed completely yet should be stimulated to reverse the process which eventually leads to disappearance of the rural areas and communities. Rural regeneration, however, is not about reversing the process of modernization and progress in the countryside. It is about preservation and revival of natural and historical heritage and stimulating the rural economy at the same time.
Protection of the rural areas translates into protection of landscape which went through a dramatic transformation over the last few decades. Rural regeneration does not automatically guarantee preservation of the landscape because the use of the land for crop production and pastures has changed the landscape considerably as well, while the conventional agricultural methods pose a serious threat to the environment. Rural regeneration therefore requires a complex approach which must stimulate the rural economy and help protect the environment at the same time. An excellent example are projects which provide education and training on organic farming which helps protect the environment without effecting the rural economy.
Conservation of the rural areas is also of major importance for conservation of diversity when it comes to both the country’s social and natural diversity. Rural communities are very different from the urban ones, however, they are of vital importance for the country’s development including the national economy. Adoption of environmentally-friendly agricultural methods and businesses, on the other hand, helps preserve biodiversity and healthy environment which dramatically improves the quality of life of the rural communities both directly and indirectly. Clean and healthy environment which thrives with life provides a major asset for the so-called countryside tourism which can be a major contributor to the rural economy and provide the urban population a getaway from the city buzz and an opportunity to enjoy tranquillity and beauty of unspoiled nature.
Many rural areas have also a rich historical heritage of national importance which is at risk of being lost forever. Fortunately, the most significant buildings and areas are protected from undesirable alterations by the Government Agencies and by a series of laws. In addition to being of major national historical and cultural importance, the designated areas and buildings also play an important role in the community’s identity and often also in rural economy by increasing tourism.
In the end, conservation of the rural areas is also of vital importance due to food production. The UK imports nearly 50% of all its food requirements which raises serious concerns about the effects of a potential disruption of food imports. So if the country wants to reduce its dependence on food imports, it must not only conserve the rural areas but to regenerate the countryside completely. This, however, requires a series of measures which must be adjusted to each rural area individually as each rural community faces unique challenges.