<p>They call it Europe’s backbone: the rural heartlands. Covering more than 80 per cent of the EU’s territory but home to less than 30 per cent of its population, rural areas are vital for food, biodiversity, and climate resilience, yet face population decline, ageing communities, poor infrastructure, and limited digital access.&nbsp;</p><p>In this episode of Europe Talks Back, Evi Kiorri explores what life is really like far from the cities, speaking with Emanuele Monaco, who left urban life to build a distillery in rural Puglia, Italy. Through his story, we uncover both the challenges and the opportunities of rural life: from revitalising communities and sustainable farming to attracting young families and new ideas. Join us as we examine how policies, investment, and community effort could shape the future of Europe’s countryside.</p><p>Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.</p><p>Production: By<a href="https://www.europod.eu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> Europod</a>, in co-production with<a href="https://spheranetwork.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> Sphera Network</a>.</p><p>Follow us on:</p><ul><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/europodpodcasts/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a></li><li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/europodpodcasts/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Instagram</a></li></ul><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>