The socioeconomic and environmental effects of sustainable development in the Eastern Carpathians, and protecting its environment

Abstract

The rich cultural heritage of its Ruthenian and Ukrainian minorities and preserved natural ecosystems represent potential for the development of sustainable forms of tourism in the region of Poloniny National Park in the Eastern Carpathian Mountains. Social and political changes in the region during the 20th century led to land abandonment, emigration of young generations, and reforestation. Some socio-economic relationships clearly reflect global trends at the regional level. At the local level, we found a weak relationship between socio-economic parameters and the system of protecting the environment. If environmental protection is increasingly marginalized in the future, this may lead to the enduring perception among the inhabitants that it is unnecessary. Therefore, local inhabitants should be engaged in activities and cooperate with nature conservation bodies to improve and create new economic opportunities founded on nature-based tourism, which should not have an intense negative impact on the country and its values.