ABSTRACT
Background There are at least two elements that make mountain regions like natural laboratories in which the consequences of economic and, especially, agricultural policies can be analysed. First of all, after centuries of relatively uniform evolution, in recent decades the Italian mountain region has become characterized by an increasing diversification.1 In fact, within the mountain areas, there are territories that develop at a different general and agricultural pace. This pace is not always strictly correlated to altitude.2 In many cases this parameter does not appear to be sufficient3 to evaluate the repercussions of economic policies. Instead, the analysis of specific, local realities becomes essential. Second, mountain regions appear as territorial spaces in which limits are evident. The great fragility of mountain habitats causes environmental constraints and negative consequences when such limitations are not respected. From a certain point of view, the limits represent the essence of life in the mountains.4 In a dynamic context, such as the present one, these limits do not act in a uniform manner as was the case for centuries with a relatively static economy based on the agro-forestry system. The emergence or non-emergence of these constantly changing limits can explain the differentiation in mountain development. In a way, this need to take into account limits and limitations can be translated into the modern concept of sustainability (WCED 1987). Yet, even given this frame of reference, it is crucial that the environmental, social and economic limits are not considered as conclusive or definitive. Even when considering sustainability, it is incorrect to think of a particular aspect as an unalterable element.5 Moreover, solutions to guarantee sustainable development (a fair and long-lasting type of development) can be more easily recognized in areas in which the social, economic, and environmental limits are more evident, such as in the mountains. Using this frame of reference, this paper will outline the causes for the reduction of the competitiveness of mountain agriculture. An introduction to the topic of multi-functionality will follow. An evaluation of the effects of current agricultural policy will then be presented. Finally, a few suggestions for the revision of the Common Agricultural Policy after 2013 will be indicated.
