A theoretical and methodological framework for the analysis and measurement of environmental heritage at local level

The study aims to assess the lived experience and the environmental heritage perceived level by residents of an high complexity rural area, and which is, in this context, the role played by production of renewable energies. The paper introduces the concept of rural capital as an effective tool for environmental heritage analysis and measurement. The proposed theoretical and methodological approach allows, in fact, its analysis in order to understand what dimensions related to territoriality are connected to the perceived level of environmental heritage at local level. Translated into operational terms, the methodology has resulted in an empirical analysis of a rural and inner area of Sicily, performed both through the examination of identified benchmark indicators, and through the observation of various phenomena, directly experienced by rural residents, detected by sample surveys that, by using a complex sampling design, allow more accurate estimates, modelled on the contexts. All these results are integrated by a multi-case study carried out by a qualitative survey detected both through desk analysis and in field observation, and through in-depth interviews with stakeholders and focus groups with local actors, all asked to assess in a participative way. The research proves that it is necessary to activate the processes of participation and social learning in order to energy planning of the territorial system, allowing at the same time to protect, preserve and enhance the environmental and natural heritage.