Barcelona faces an agricultural crisis, having lost more than 70% of its cultivable land. This drastic reduction reflects the decline of peri-urban agriculture in the Metropolitan Area, according to a recent study by ICTA-UAB.
Currently, only 8.5% of the territory is dedicated to agricultural activities, which translates to a mere 16 m² per citizen. This context is influenced by the pressure of urban development and the low profitability of the agricultural sector.
The disappearance of farmland has serious consequences. One of the most concerning effects is the increase in dependence on imported food, which raises the carbon footprint due to transportation.
Likewise, biodiversity suffers, as traditional agricultural practices provided essential habitats for various species. Additionally, the fields played a crucial role in CO₂ absorption and in mitigating the heat island effect in urban areas.
According to ICTA-UAB, the disappearance of these spaces compromises the resilience of cities and food security. Urban growth and real estate speculation, especially intensified before the 2008 crisis, have been key drivers of this change.
The challenges to maintaining agricultural activity are exacerbated by the lack of profitability, international competition, and land fragmentation. Additionally, the absence of generational renewal increases the abandonment of farms.
Loss of agricultural land
The risk of relying on external supply chains increases the danger in the event of economic or geopolitical crises, researchers warn. This phenomenon is also observed in areas like Collserola, Serralada Marina, and Ordal, where agricultural abandonment has allowed the expansion of forested areas.
In the Llobregat delta, tensions between urban pressure and environmental regulations complicate the work of farmers.
The challenges for professional agriculture are intensified due to the loss of irrigation systems, fragmentation by infrastructure, and the scarce availability of water. This has fostered informal cultivation models.
However, initiatives like the Parc Agrari del Baix Llobregat show that it is possible to protect agricultural land and reverse the trend with appropriate measures.
To prevent this negative trend from becoming irreversible, experts suggest implementing effective policies. Protecting green belts, promoting local markets, and supporting farmers are crucial steps. The case of Barcelona illustrates the challenge of balancing urban development with environmental conservation.
