In a significant stride towards sustainable development, recent research led by Shuaijun Lin from the Macao Polytechnic University has unveiled an innovative framework for evaluating agritourism-integrated rural human settlement environments. This study, published in the Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering, addresses the pressing need for a scientific evaluation system that aligns with China’s dual-carbon goals amidst the rising challenges of climate change and evolving tourism consumption patterns.
With the Chinese government advocating for a green transformation in agriculture, Lin’s research emphasizes the importance of creating a harmonious relationship between people and land through agritourism. “Our findings highlight that economic development and the natural environment are critical aspects of evaluating rural human settlement environments,” Lin stated, underscoring the dual focus on sustainability and growth.
The research employs the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to assign weights to various evaluation indicators, thus establishing a robust model that integrates agritourism with rural development. By utilizing a Back Propagation (BP) neural network, the study successfully predicted the scores of 22 agritourism-integrated villages in Zhejiang Province, achieving an impressive average absolute error of just 1.18%. This remarkable accuracy not only validates the model but also positions it as a valuable tool for government agencies to monitor and evaluate rural environments.
The implications of this research extend far beyond academic interest; they have tangible commercial impacts for the construction sector. As rural areas increasingly adopt agritourism models, there is a burgeoning demand for infrastructure that supports these initiatives. From eco-friendly accommodations to sustainable agricultural facilities, construction professionals will find new opportunities in developing spaces that cater to the dual needs of tourism and environmental conservation.
Lin’s work serves as a clarion call for stakeholders in the construction and tourism industries to collaborate on creating sustainable environments that not only enhance the rural landscape but also contribute to carbon reduction goals. “The integration of agritourism into rural development is not just about preserving the environment; it’s about fostering economic resilience,” Lin remarked, suggesting a future where construction projects can contribute significantly to both local economies and environmental sustainability.
As the landscape of rural development continues to evolve, this research provides a framework that can guide future projects and policies. By focusing on the intersection of agritourism and rural human settlement environments, it paves the way for innovative approaches that can drive both ecological and economic progress.
For more information about Shuaijun Lin and his work, you can visit the Macao Polytechnic University.
