Eine grenzüberschreitende Analyse der Politiken für die Almwirtschaft in den Alpen

Abstract

Livestock farming and the environmentally friendly management of Alpine pastures represent a traditional form of mountain farming. Grazing and the maintenance of pastures and alps are publically subsidised in recognition of the ecological importance of the activities and because production costs are higher than usual due to the mountainous topography. In the complex of numerous support measures, payments made in the context of agri-environmental measures and compensatory allowances for disadvantaged areas prove to be the most effective arrangements for an ongoing management of Alpine pastures. The paper analyses international and regional differences and similarities in objectives, procedures, definitions/specifications and financial resources of these agricultural policy regulations for the preservation of this mountain landscape. Since the contribution system is not the only influence on the development of alpine farming, the relationship between the development of farms and tourism and regional economic conditions is analysed by way of an example. Based on the results and on findings from expert interviews, the authors deduce recommendations for action for sustainable policies in mountain areas.