Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
th INTERNATIONAL ZEUGMA CONGRESS ON SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH , Gaziantep, Türkiye, 24 - 26 Şubat 2025, ss.404-407
The exponential growth in global population has resulted in an increased demand for safe food sources. It is projected that the global population will reach approximately 10 billion by 2050. The confluence of an expanding population, the adverse effects of climate change, an increasing urbanisation trend and a gradual reduction in agricultural land are collectively intensifying the challenge of meeting global food demand. In light of these developments, the concept of sustainability has emerged as a pivotal concern in the agricultural sector, with the aim of ensuring the continued provision of food for a growing global population. In the contemporary era, the growing pressure on water resources and the rise in carbon emissions have led to an increased emphasis on sustainability and environmental balance. Among the sustainable development goals, those pertaining to the environment and access to clean water occupy a particularly prominent position. A number of studies have indicated that water consumption is likely to increase by between 20 and 30 per cent by 2050. In light of these considerations, the concept of sustainability in the agricultural sector must encompass not only the increase in agricultural production and the continuity of production, but also the sustainability of other factors that directly or indirectly affect production. In this context, the concept of agricultural sustainability is inextricably linked to the broader issue of rural sustainability and development. The concept of rural development encompasses a range of initiatives aimed at enhancing the economic and social conditions of rural areas. Currently, a number of studies are being conducted in rural areas. One such initiative is the European Union's 'NonProductive Investments' programme. Non-productive investments are defined as investments that do not provide a significant return on investment, income, or profit, but which have a positive environmental impact. Non-productive investments can play a significant role in environmental protection and enhancement of the environmental value of protected areas within the agricultural sector. This study focuses on defining non-productive investments, examining examples from around the globe and exploring the potential applications of such investments in our country. It also delves into the scope and contribution of these investments to rural development studies.
Keywords: Rural Development, Sustainability, Environment, Rural Area.