Is Rural Out Migration Constructive for Sustainable Development? A Case of Mountain Community of Kıbrıscık, Turkey
Abstract
This paper investigates
the relationship between environmental degradation and out migration in
mountainous area of Kibriscik district, Bolu Province, Turkey. Primary data was
collected through personal observations and in-depth interviews with residents
of different age groups and representatives of civil society organizations. Furthermore,
secondary data was collected from Turkish Directorate General of Forest,
Turkish statistical Institute and District Agriculture Office, Kibriscik.
Results revealed that population of the research area have decreased
significantly in recent years due to lack of employment opportunities in the
area. Out migration has proved beneficial in terms of environmental stability.
On the other hand, decreased number of young people resulted in abundance of
economically inactive older ones. As a result, serious decrease in livestock
and agricultural activity is observed in the area. Similar situations in most
of mountainous areas of Turkey has affected the country`s overall demand of
dairy products.
Keywords
Environmental conservation,population dynamics,sustainable development,mountainous areas,Turkey
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