opulation and peri-urbanization in Alcarria

Abstract

The factors influencing depopulation and periurbanization in rural areas are investigated by selecting a homogeneous region with 191 municipalities. Long-term population changes are analyzed using regression models based on census data. The impact of initial population, proximity to large cities, highways, nuclear power plants, and altitude is assessed. The results indicate depopulation began in 1910, was significant between 1950 and 1981, and has increased again in the last decade, affecting localities of different sizes similarly. Periurbanization began in 1950, intensified until 2011, and has recently decreased. Proximity to transportation infrastructure has not been significant since 1970, and nuclear power plants also lack a significant impact. Altitude negatively affects population density, but not depopulation since the mid-20th century