Second Homes and Maximum Yield in Marginal Land

Abstract

It is generally argued that commodification of rural areas leads to a change in the rural economy from being based on exploiting the physical environment to being mainly based on exploiting the aesthetical appeal of rural areas. In this article, however, it is revealed that commodification of rural areas in Norway is closely connected with exploitation of the physical environment, including through the re-resourcing of land from marginal agriculture and abandoned industrial sites into second home developments. This re-resourcing has also been an economic driving force for related tourist, housing and infrastructure developments. Politically, it has significantly influenced local power configurations. Simultaneously, external and local actors are commanded by stronger environmental regulations that govern the geography of re-resourcing. This article is based on studies of the municipalities of Ringebu and Kragerø, Norway, using analysis of planning documents and qualitative interviews.