Cultural Ecosystem Services and Community Engagement : the experience of Madonie Inner Area

Abstract

The paper explores the transformation of production dynamics due to globalization and socio-economic factors, with a focus on inner areas that suffer from marginalization, poverty, and social decline. Despite renewed interest and policies aimed at revitalization, these areas often receive compensatory rather than innovative responses. The study critically examines the National Strategy for Inner Areas (SNAI) and employs the capability approach of Amartya Sen and a bioregionalist vision to enhance interpersonal relationships and community growth. It emphasizes the role of Cultural Ecosystem Services (CES) in local development and "place knowledge" to integrate grassroots practices into planning. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research aims to bridge the gap between research, policy, and practice, proposing new models of cooperation and strategies to unlock territorial potential.