Linking Urban & Rural Economies & Communities
Harper Adams: bridging the Urban/Rural divide
Urban and rural economies and communities often seem separated by a lack of understanding of each other's viewpoint. At Harper Adams we have a research and reach-out theme which concentrates on bridging the urban/rural divide. In particular, we work on identifying new ways in which the rural economy can respond to emerging urban demands.
Opportunities in the fresh produce market
Harper Adams has been instrumental in looking at ways of linking the farmers and growers of the region with the market demand for specialist fresh produce, particularly from black and ethnic minority controlled retail and foodservice businesses in the West Midlands. For more detailed information please download the Case Study at the bottom of the page or contact Dr Martin Hingley.
Long-term consumer perceptions
Since 1997 Harper Adams has been surveying 600 consumers a year to understand what they think of a number of controversial issues such as GM foods, the safety of British food, including meat, and the environmental impacts of farming. The results are of interest to policymakers and retailers aiming to address consumer concerns.
CaRE
The Care and Rural Enterprise (CaRE) Business Club aims to match up the need for care services in urban areas with rural providers (particularly specialised B&Bs). Research shows that people often gain extra benefit from being cared for in a rural environment. Members of CaRE provide a range of services, including post-operative recuperation, respite care for short periods (to give carers "a break"), and short holidays involving alternative therapies. For more detailed information on CaRE please download the Case Study at the bottom of the page, follow the weblink below or contact Debbie Wilcox.
Renewable energy sources
With the increasing UK and worldwide emphasis on using renewable energy sources, Harper Adams is investigating a number of new technologies which may help rural areas provide energy for urban use on a commercial basis. Please browse to the Sustainable Technology & the Rural Economy page.