The positive links between the environment and economy of the South West are now widely recognised. As a result, the importance of conserving and enhancing the environment - for the benefit it brings to the economy as well as for its own value - are understood, if not always reflected in practice. 
 
What is less clear is what can be done to build on, strengthen and benefit from these positive linkages. What improvements to the rural environment could bring benefits to the region's economy? What types of initiatives might help the region to maximise the economic benefits it gains from the environment driver, while ensuring that the quality of the environment itself is maintained? Where should environmental economy activity be prioritised? 
 
The paper, The Environmental Economy in the Rural Areas of South West England (Adobe Acrobat Reader Document - 295.92kb) , sets out a coherent framework for development at a regional level that creates jobs and economic opportunities while helping to sustain and enhance the natural environment of the region's rural areas. 
 
Diana Mompoloki 
South West RDA 
Sterling House 
Dix's Field 
Exeter 
Devon EX1 1QA 
Email: diana.mompoloki@southwestrda.org.uk