‘Rewilding’ in densely populated landscapes: definition, manifestations and consequences
Titel‘Rewilding’ in densely populated landscapes: definition, manifestations and consequences
Verantwoordelijkheids-vermeldingJacob Knegtel
Verantwoordelijke(n)
Plaats van uitgaves.l.
Uitgevers.n.
Jaar van uitgave2018
Pagina's24 pagina's
Illustratiesillustraties
MateriaalDigitale publicatie
SamenvattingStudies on ‘rewilding’ in densely populated areas are rare. At the same time we see an increasing number of rewilding initiatives in areas like this, especially on the European continent. The dominant rewilding philosophy underlines the importance of extensive land availability needed for ecosystem restoration, while human influences must be brought back to a minimum. In densely populated areas, these conditions hardly ever apply. How then does rewilding fit in the context of densely populated rural landscapes? These landscapes are often dominated by cultural heritage, which gives regions their identity and familiarity. This studies’ perspective will be from a heritage point of view, looking at the both harmonious and conflicting relationship between culture and nature. By positioning rewilding and the ‘idea of wilderness’ in heritage theory, the context of rewilding in densely populated rural areas can be better understood. Three Dutch rewilding pilots form the cases of this research; each unique in its human and physical geography and the way rewilding is implemented. Even though a majority of the Dutch citizens see the independence of human interference as the most important feature of nature and actually prefer wild nature over urban development and infrastructure, the loss of familiar surroundings that is brought about by rewilding instills the protection of this cultural heritage. However, several multi-actor approaches currently indicate that this strategy could benefit both sustainable nature development and societies’ often damaged relationship with nature, if approached holistically.
AnnotatieMet literatuuropgave
Trefwoordennatuur, natuurbeleid, natuurontwikkeling, bevolkingsleer, erfgoed
Geografisch trefwoordEuropa, Oostvaardersplassen, Drents-Friese Woud, Gelderse Poort
Monument landNederland