The Precariousness of Walloon Peri-Urban Agricultural Lands

Given the increasing need for residential and economic development and also for the improvement of the living environment, for food and energy production, we should reflect on the use of agricultural lands. Even if the citizens and the regional government are rediscovering the multiple services provided by agricultural lands, we observe that the agricultural landscape in Wallonia (the southern part of Belgium) is in a precarious situation, especially at the edge of the cities. At the same time, the Regional Policy Declaration promotes the development of high-quality and close-proximity food belts, the coexistence of human and economic activities with nature, and the end of new land taken by 2050. Our paper focuses on the precariousness of agricultural lands at the edges of cities and presents a twofold research project to conduct a prospective assessment. First, we surveyed 587 Walloons on their perceptions of agricultural lands and their functions. Secondly, we analysed several case studies next to the main Walloon conurbations. Based on satellite images, agricultural parcel data, field observations, and interviews with stakeholders, we identified the services provided by these agricultural lands and the different pressures that they face. This research improves our understanding of the role(s) played by agriculture within, or at the edge of, cities, underlines the thorny issue of land ownership, and points out the diversity of situations encountered. It recommends handling the issue at multiple decision levels and involving stakeholders to develop a common vision, which considers the numerous services delivered by agricultural lands and gives weight to the decision to protect it or not.