Multifunctional agriculture and nested markets as rural development practices: evidence from rural areas in the province of Belluno (Veneto, Italy)

Multifunctionality has gained importance in the policy discourse as it can fulfill several functions for the community and the territory as a whole. It is linked to quality production, natural resource conservation, and social inclusion. In rural areas, it represents both a tradition and a strategy implemented by individual farmers to diversify their sources of income. If appropriately valorized, multifunctionality becomes an asset for both producers, consumers, and rural users. Moreover, such agricultural products can find a market outlet within new nested markets, where the exchange emancipates its participants and contributes to the revitalization of rural economies and communities. The thesis investigates the role of multifunctional agriculture and nested markets in enhancing development in the rural areas of the province of Belluno in Veneto, Italy. The research analyses the interrelations between multifunctional farming and rural communities, at the micro and meso level, corresponding to individual farmers and two newly formed rural associations, the Food Community “Montagna Bellunese” and the Biodistrict “Terre Bellunesi”. A mixed quantitative and qualitative methodology was employed. First, individual farmers have been submitted a questionnaire focusing on their activity and the relations they entertain with other rural actors. Moreover, six semi-structured interviews were conducted with the associations' representatives and participants. From the gathered data, the research will finally try to identify potential nested markets in the area.