Sustainable Mountain Regions: Challenges and Perspectives in Southeastern Europe

Book excerpt: Central to this edited volume is the proposition that the mountainous border region of Southeastern Europe needs to become a special target of European Union scale, regional development policy-making. Vivid case studies from eleven Central and Southeast European states present diverse perspectives on this region’s physical geography, economy and demographics and demonstrate the integrative potential of the geographic perspective in mountain research. Europe as a whole has a lot to gain from a “sustainable mountains” policy, especially in Southeast Europe. In their focus on the sustainable development of such areas, the chapters consider regional development policy, ecosystem services assessment, small-scale tourism, and forestry management. This book will be of interest to a wide audience, including academics, students, and practitioners in the fields of geography, ecology, and environmental studies.