Rural-Urban Linkages for Sustainable Development

This book examines the various forms of urban-rural links for sustainable development in different countries, contributing to understanding the role of these connections from an economic geographical perspective. It highlights the interplay between urban and rural areas and their consequences for sustainability transition pathways. The book is of interest to decision-makers, practitioners, and researchers in economic geography, regional planning, food studies, and economics.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 24 September 2021
Publisher: Routledge

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate dynamics of urban-rural connections in pursuit of sustainable development across diverse countries. As globalization, digitalization, environmental concerns, and the quest for sustainable progress intertwine, rural and urban regions worldwide are forging ever-stronger bonds and interdependencies. This book makes a valuable contribution to our understanding of this evolving interconnectedness from an economic geographical perspective. Through theoretical and empirical exploration, it addresses the diverse existing linkages, including food networks, value chains, and regional governance, at local, regional, national, and international levels. By examining the interplay between urban and rural areas and their implications for sustainability transition pathways, this book extends and challenges conventional approaches that treat these two spheres separately.

In this edited volume, a multitude of concepts and themes are brought together to shift the research and policy agenda away from simplistic dichotomies and towards a nuanced understanding of rural-urban linkages. By offering multidisciplinary insights, the book appeals to decision-makers, practitioners, and researchers in the fields of economic geography, regional planning, food studies, and economics.

The book explores the multifaceted aspects of urban-rural relations, including economic, social, and environmental dimensions. It examines how urbanization, technological advancements, and global market trends shape rural landscapes and communities, while also highlighting the challenges and opportunities rural areas face in the context of sustainable development.

One key theme is the role of rural-urban linkages in promoting food security and nutrition. It explores how food production, distribution, and consumption patterns are interconnected, and how urbanization can contribute to food insecurity and malnourishment in rural areas. The book also examines the potential of urban agriculture and food systems to address these challenges and promote sustainable food production and consumption.

Another important theme is the role of rural-urban linkages in fostering economic development and job creation. It explores how rural areas can benefit from proximity to urban centers, access to infrastructure, and opportunities for entrepreneurship and innovation. The book also examines the challenges faced by rural communities in transitioning to sustainable economic practices and the role of government policies and interventions in promoting rural development.

The book also explores the role of regional governance in shaping urban-rural linkages and promoting sustainable development. It examines how regional institutions, policies, and initiatives can facilitate or hinder the integration of urban and rural areas, and how they can promote sustainable land use, transportation, and environmental management.

In conclusion, this book provides a valuable contribution to the academic and policy discourse on urban-rural linkages and sustainable development. By offering multidisciplinary insights and a comprehensive examination of the diverse existing linkages, it helps to shift the research and policy agenda towards a more nuanced and integrated understanding of these complex processes. The book will be of interest to decision-makers, practitioners, and researchers in the fields of economic geography, regional planning, food studies, and economics.

Weight: 395g
Dimension: 234 x 156 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367545932