Depopulation and Residential Dynamics in Teruel (Spain): Sustainable Housing in Rural Areas

• Published in: Urban science Vol. 8; no. 3; p. 110
• Main Authors: García-Madurga, Miguel-Ángel, Esteban-Navarro, Miguel-Ángel, Saz-Gil, Isabel, Anés-Sanz, Sara
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Basel MDPI AG 01-09-2024
• Subjects: Built environment; demographic analysis; Demographic change; Demographics; Demography; depopulation; Employment; Foreign residents; Green buildings; Housing; Labor market; Living conditions; Older people; population change; Population decline; Population density; Population distribution; Public services; residential dynamics; Rural areas; Rural communities; Rural land use; Rural planning; Small cities; Sparsely populated areas; Statistics; Sustainability; Sustainable agriculture; Sustainable development; Teruel; Tourism; Urban areas; United Kingdom; Spain
• ISSN: 2413-8851; 2413-8851
• DOI: 10.3390/urbansci8030110

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of depopulation and residential dynamics in Teruel, a province emblematic of the aging and depopulation issues prevalent in many inland regions of Spain and Europe. Through an in-depth examination utilizing official statistics, academic studies, and reports, this study highlights the demographic structure, historical evolution, and current trends in Teruel. Key patterns of population change and their implications for urban and rural planning are identified. The analysis covers population density, vital balances, and household distribution, with a special focus on the significant role of the foreign population. Additionally, the challenges associated with vacant housing and the management of unused land are discussed, proposing revitalization strategies for the built environment in rural settings through sustainable housing initiatives. This study aims to contribute to the discourse on sustainable development of small cities and rural areas, offering integrated solutions that not only enhance living conditions but also encourage balanced and sustainable growth.