Reducing the visual impact of plasticulture on rural landscapes by a sustainable management of agricultural plastics.

The use of plastics in agriculture represents one of the main factors having a major impact on the environmental sustainability of the agricultural sector. The effectiveness, economy and versatility of using different plastic polymers has made these products widespread in highly profitable agricultural activities (orchards and horticulture). However, their incorrect management can determine serious environmental impacts, mainly connected to large quantities of post-consume plastic waste. Another problem is linked to the visual impact that these large clusters can have on the surrounding rural landscape. Indeed, the aesthetic quality of these territories may be reduced, with negative impacts on the surrounding areas - often characterized by a fragile environment and a marked tourist vocation - whose perception is difficult to quantify and evaluate. In this paper, a GIS-based methodology has been implemented, to perform a visual impact assessment, by applying it to the case study of the agri-food district of “Metapontino” (Basilicata Region - Southern Italy). GIS tools, besides allowing complex spatial analysis, revealed as a planning instrument that can be used by public authority also to activate suitable strategies for mitigating the visual impact of plastics on rural landscape, so as to contribute to reducing the plastic footprint of agriculture.