Does agricultural abandonment matter? An Italian perspective

Farmland abandonment in Italy is closely linked to rural depopulation; however, the current agricultural policies have proven insufficient to counter it. Research has identified its drivers and effects, but their interconnections and societal impacts remain underexplored. It is essential to evaluate ecosystem services and agricultural externalities to make informed decisions, although applying such assessments in practice is still challenging. The main cause of abandonment is low profitability; ensuring fair incomes is necessary but insufficient without considering local living conditions and quality-of-life factors. Integrated approaches, supported by theoretical frameworks such as Sen’s capabilities, can guide context-specific strategies to sustain rural livelihoods. Effective responses require coordinated multi-level governance; territorial zoning; and strategies that combine competitiveness, social well-being, and economic sustainability. Demographic trends, generational turnover, and declining sector appeal heighten the urgency for action. European and national policies increasingly recognise the link between depopulation and agricultural decline, making this a pivotal moment for intervention. Applied and agricultural economists can play a central role, if they are willing to embrace the challenge.