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Tourism, as a form of spending free time, has undergone numerous transformations in the last period of time, this is due both to globalization that contributed to the internationalization of tourist experiences, but also to recent events (such as the Covid-19 pandemic, economic crises, etc), but also changing the perception of tourism consumers regarding how they can spend their free time. Traditional or well-known destinations have started to face overcrowding, which is starting to be felt negatively by both residents and visitors who are starting to change their consumption habits regarding the locations they choose as tourist destinations. On the other hand, the challenges of the modern world regarding the effects of global warming, the sharp increase in the population, the depletion of planetary resources, but also the much greater concerns of the current generations regarding these aspects, make the choices we make regarding the choice leisure destinations to change and become more responsible. In this context, creative tourism as an increasingly sought-after option, among a growing category of consumers. In this paper, we set out to analyze the perception that tourism consumers in Romania have regarding this form of tourism. The research assumed, on the one hand, a bibliographic analysis regarding the term creative tourism and how this notion has evolved from the moment of its definition as a form of tourism in the 2000s until now, as well as from a study of case based on the application of a questionnaire to measure the perception of consumers regarding this form of tourism, but especially on the awareness of its existence. The questionnaire had 16 questions answered by 124 respondents. The data were centralized and interpreted with the help of the Excel program, the results highlighting the fact that although some of the respondents practice creative tourism, it is quite little known as a concept. The answers given by the study participants highlighted the fact that they are interested in practicing activities integrated into creative tourism, considering that there are many advantages both regarding the experiences they create, with the interactions they establish with the locals or with the other participants. At the same time, the impact that creative tourism practices have at the local level (both economic and social) is recognized. We consider that these results are useful not only at the micro level, but also at the macro level, under the conditions that the development strategies of the field of hospitality will be thought in such a way as to promote, integrate and develop this form of contemporary tourism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of communication networks has an increasingly important role in the development and modernization of the fields of activity of agriculture. This trend has effects between different actors in the production chain and creates a tighter connection between the stages of land cultivation or the maintenance of natural pastures, ecological grazing, milk, and meat production, respectively the preparation of the final products and their distribution, including marketing techniques. In the paper, an analysis will be made of the specialized publications in the field of Agribusiness in Romania and the effectiveness of the various communication channels used in the present will be discussed with the aim of contributing to mitigating the current problems of natural grazing activities and identifying the main pillars of development and progress. This research paper utilizes an academic research methodology aiming to highlight the importance of communication networks in promoting natural grazing activities. The results of the study demonstrate that the establishment of networks can significantly contribute to the modernization of the Romanian agricultural sector, aligning it with the principles of sustainable competitiveness and resilience. In conclusion, this study provides evidence that the establishment of such networks is essential for the development of a sustainable and resilient agricultural sector in Romania. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aimed to study several sustainable practices which tourist accommodation establishments can apply to contribute to sustainable development. The application of sustainable practices is essential, as tourist accommodation establishments are very resource-intensive. This paper is based on a quantitative research, and the data has been processed through statistical frequencies. The data were collected through a questionnaire, and the target group was made up of tourist accommodation establishments from four counties of Romania, more specifically Calarasi, Giurgiu, Ialomita and Teleorman. The method through which the results are presented is the graphical method. The obtained results confirmed that the tourist accommodation establishments in the four counties are poorly involved in activities aimed at sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the great current challenges at the global level is represented by finding sustainable production systems that ensure both social, economic and environmental sustainability, while at the same time pursuing the optimal provision of production, trade or consumption indicators. Globalization is the one that affected those producers who, not having access to alternative markets, had to sell their goods at much lower prices, thus making the very principles of equity and efficiency affected. The solution was represented by the practice of fair trade and the application of sustainable supply systems, which represent ways to solve these shortcomings. This paperanalyzes the situation of fair trade worldwide and its evolution for the period 2012-2020. The research methodology assumed the collection of data, their processing and analysis with the help of some statistical indicators such as: the number of Fairtrade organizations, the number of Fairtrade farmers, the number of workers in Fairtrade organizations, the proportion of women involved in Fairtrade activities, the areas intended for obtaining Fairtrade productions, Fairtrade productions, premiums granted in Fairtrade. The data highlighted the fact that worldwide, during the analyzed period, there was a continuous increase in fair trade, the increase being over 65% in terms of the number of producer organizations. The number of farmers reached over 1.77 million in 2020, this being the result of understanding the role of affiliation to this form of trade. The largest number of producers participating in fair trade are producers of coffee, tea or cocoa, their share being, in the analyzed period, between 86-92%. The paper highlights the fact that the emergence and development of fair trade represented a way of supporting farmers and agricultural workers in developing countries, this can be done both by the political environment, but also by society. Although the application of these measures has contributed to the increase in the standard of living, to the respect of the rights of farmers and workers, equally with the principles of sustainable development, the weight of fair trade in all trade, proves the fact that it is still carried out on a small scale, as there is a need for the development yes, with the aim of reducing global poverty.. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper purpose was to analyze the present situation of the mountain areas in Romania from a sociodemographic, economic and environmental point of view in order to identify the main positive and negative aspects and to establish what objectives and measures have to be considered for assuring the sustainable development of the mountain regions in the coming future. The statistical data provided by Eurostat, FAO, National Institute of Statistics and National Agency for Mountain Areas were statistically processed in their dynamics using trend regression equations, graphical illustration and comparisons. The results pointed out that the Carpathians cover 37.8% of Romania's area and are predominantly rural. The share of the mountain municipalities is just 37.8%(12th position in Europe), the residents account for 5.53 million (6th position) meaning 25% in the total population (11th position), agriculture (mainly animal growing) and forestry are the main activities. In 2021, in the mountain regions there were registered 3,147 producers who carried out 1,164 mountain products, the highest weight belonging to vegetal, dairy and beekeeping products whose sale was assured by 135 Local Gastronomic Points. The contribution of the mountain areas to GDP was Euro 48.7 million, for which Romania came on the 8th position among other European countries. The actual challenges the mountain areas are facing are: the decline and aging of the population, migration of young people to the cities, weak infrastructure, livestock decrease, grasslands degradation, weak promotion of mountain products, lack of connectivity and communication between settlements, a low valorization of the natural and human resources. In consequence, as the Mountain Law provides, it is needed a new approach regarding the development of the mountain economy by valorizing in a more effective way all the resources, paying attention to the diversification of the activities, creating new jobs, stimulating entrepreneurship to increase production (agriculture, forestry, handicrafts etc) and encourage more services (education, medical, cultural, tourism, trade, credit etc), facilities for supporting young people to remain in the localities of origin, improving infrastructure (roads, bridges, houses and village restoration, connectivity to IT and mobile network, digitalization etc), involving both the local authorities and all the residents to intensify their efforts to support the mountain areas in their way to a sustainable development upwards 2030. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper intends to address the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on the development of rural areas in Galati County, after the application of the state of emergency in Romania. The article is based on the interpretation of the change of certain economic indicators in rural areas and their impact on the population, economic environment, industry, and agriculture. Supplementary research has been conducted by interpreting the changes triggered by the COVID-19 crisis on the decisions of local and regional authorities to develop certain strategies and projects before and after the end of the present crisis. At the same time, it is analyzed that rural areas were perceived as providing a defense wall against this pandemic, motivating the population in urban areas to seek shelter in rural areas, thus contributing to the development of the economic environment. However, in reality, rural areas have been the hardest hit, unable to provide the infrastructure needed for such a human wave. In the context of those presented, the paper is an analysis of economic and social factors but also of how the COVID-19 crisis has influenced the current situation in rural areas of Galati County. To reach the result of this analysis, research methods were used based on reports, studies, papers and specialized publications both online and offline. As a main result of this paper we can mention the identification at regional level of changes in social, demographic and economic factors with considerable impact on the rural economy in the coming years. Thus, agriculture will feel a decline due to this pandemic, after 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stable development of agriculture in the context of innovative transformation of productive forces and structural changes is recognized as one of the directions of the National Security Strategy of the Russian Federation. Mechanisms for stimulating technological change and increasing efficiency should be aimed at achieving sustainable production criteria. The purpose of the study is to develop conceptual aspects of managing the sustainable development of agriculture using the example of livestock industries in conditions of structural transformation and technological changes. The article examines theoretical and methodological approaches to the study of problems of sustainable development of agriculture. An analysis was carried out and an assessment was made of the dynamics of crop yields and livestock production. Significant structural shifts and technological changes in the livestock subcomplex of Russia, caused by the processes of diffusion of innovations, have been identified. The authors have developed conceptual approaches to studying the problems of sustainable agricultural development in regional agricultural systems based on effective management. The main objectives of the proposed concepts are: expansion of production volumes of agricultural products, taking into account the needs of the region and export opportunities; technical and technological modernization of agricultural organizations and achieving an innovative balance of resources; compliance with the principles of rational environmental management and achieving environmental safety. The practical value of the results lies in the possibility of forming a strategy for the sustainable development of regional agricultural systems in the conditions of structural transformation and technological changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the impact of the Strasbourg Christmas Market on local producers in Alsace, France, focusing on its role in rural tourism and consumer preferences for sustainability and bio products. Combining online survey data from Christmas tourists and analysis of existing reports, the research investigates the market's influence on producer visibility and consumer behavior. Findings inform strategies for promoting rural economic development and sustainable practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The general well-being of small farms represents an important and actual issue for the Republic of Moldova. Taking into consideration that they are more likely to be exposed to hazards of different origin, it is becoming increasingly important to enhance their living and working conditions. The aim of the paper is to analyse the current situation of small farms in the Republic of Moldova in the context of sustainable development of the agricultural sector and emphasize their future possibilities of progress. For the purpose of the research, a survey has been carried out on a sample of 552 small farms from North, Centre and South regions of the Republic of Moldova. The main findings present prospects for development of small farms in the country under certain conditions, like: specialization in high added value production, efficientization of working time, modernization of farming activities, establishment of direct relations with the market, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the existing situation of aquaculture sector at the level of Giurgiu County, based on some data on fish consumption and a price analyse. Based the legal framework for organic fishing, sustainable fishing in studied in relation to environmental protection, and the main measures taken by the state are the goal to encourage and develop sustainable and lasting fisheries. Last but not least, it includes assessments of ecological aquaculture, the eco-label and measures that Romania takes to protect biodiversity, focusing on the balanced exploitation of the fishery resource. The paper employed a quantitative and a qualitative analysis using the data regarding from the tempo on line data base and the analysis is also based on interviews with the consumers. The results reveal that applying eco-friendly fishery methods, the environment can be kept cleaner, and the beauty of the fish and terrestrial wildlife around the rivers will be able to enjoy, along with fishermen, the rural community and tourists who come to the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the paper is to define the principal component analysis method for assessing the rural development level in the Republic of Moldova. The results of mathematical processing of primary data obtained as a result of surveying 9 rural localities using the Date Envelopment Analysis are presented. Applying the rating method as a key indicator of sustainable development it provides a comprehensive approach to the rural area issues. Socio-economic and ecological characteristics of the evaluated sample are also evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the sustainable fishing in relation to environmental protection, the main measures taken by the state to encourage and develop sustainable and lasting fisheries. Time series have been used with regard to the total catches of commercial fishing in Giurgiu County in 2017, total capture from aquaculture in Giurgiu County in 2017 and total catches (tonnes) reported by economic operators authorized to fish commercially in flowing waters under Romanian jurisdiction over 2008-2015. Also, statistical data on fish consumption were used including a questionnaires addressed to fishermen and aquaculture units in Giurgiu County. Last but not least, it includes assessments of ecological aquaculture, the eco-label and measures that our country takes to protect biodiversity, focusing on the balanced exploitation of the fishery resource. Conversion to organic and ecological aquaculture requires a financial support to continue to develop in Romania. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aims to highlight the main features of economic activity in the Tulcea county, with specific interest in agriculture and the rural development sector. Regional goals for the revitalization of the rural area fostering sustainable development towards bioeconomy are based on the general aims of European strategies in this area. The settlement of regional bioeconomy in the Tulcea county and the neighboring areas, has great potential due to the high availability of the biologically based raw materials. Agriculture is well represented and it may become a cornerstone for food processing industry, boosting the economic progress. The paper employed a quantitative and a qualitative analysis using official strategy reports and statistical data in order to review the latest available data regarding the development of economic activities in Tulcea county. The statistical data were retrieved from the tempo on line data base. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Annually, the state allocates significant amounts of money for the carrying out of public procurement contracts concerned with the supply of food products. Rural areas, due to their natural potential, but also to their existing human resource, can further develop through the implementation of projects concerned with circular economy and a sustainable food chain. The implementation of Green Deal policies, the integration of appropriate sustainable development strategies will allow the economic growth of rural areas. In the making of this article, information published in the Electronic Public Procurement System (EPPS), during the 2018-2021 period was collected, concerning contracts for the supply of various food products. The novelty of this article consists in the analysis carried out on food related public procurement, by product categories and institutions. Based on the results of this research, there are suggestions for opportunities of development in rural areas, issues related to the sustainability of the food chain which should be integrated in sustainable public procurement procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rural tourism registers a growing evolution in the rural economy of Romania in the last 10 years, thanks to the progressive involvement of specialists, of entrepreneurs and also of the factors of local responsibility. However, there are many steps to go before making a superior recovery of the tourism potential which characterizes the Romanian villages. This requires the identification, the development and the implementation of some strategic options based on natural resource, but geared towards the sustainable use of it. Thus, this paper addresses the rural tourism development from the perspective of a strategic management in order to adopt and implement those strategic options aimed at the sustainable development of the rural tourism. Specifically, in the rural area of Sibiu Depression took place a field research study after the case methodology, which has contributed to the demonstration of the requirements for a sustainable development of the rural tourism in the specific examined area. The result consisted of the formulation, elaboration and adoption with a view to the implementation of some relevant strategic options for a sustainable development of the tourism in the rural area of Sibiu Depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study considers the approach to the assessment of the formation of balanced agricultural land use by agricultural enterprises. Key efficiency indicators were proposed to use in the assessment of the effectiveness of sustainable agricultural land use measures, namely the environmental sustainability factor - to assess the environmental stability, the yield per unit area and gross value added - for economic and social sustainability assessment. In particular, the study presents the results of the calculations of the actual and potential economic and social efficiency of land use in agricultural enterprises, as well as the calculation of those for non-traditional land use on the example of Kyiv oblast. It was found that reducing the area under sunflower does not worsen economic and social sustainability, but rather improves it. The calculated indicators of economic and social sustainability of land use reveal that Kyiv oblast should adhere to the norms of ratio of the crops sowing scheme and the area under niche crops increase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the article we proved that rural tourism in a market economy is becoming increasingly important, because it helps to solve the problems of rural development, namely: the outflow of young people to cities, declining employment, low incomes of the rural population, and more. The purpose of the article is to study rural agritourism and substantiate the tourist potential of rural areas of Ukraine on the basis of sustainable development. In the process of studying the dynamics of rural green tourism in Ukraine, it was found that the number of farmsteads in Ukraine is increasing and the development of agritourism is intensifying. In the article we found that the saturation of rural tourist farmsteads is unevenly distributed throughout Ukraine, due to natural and climatic conditions, the presence of historical and cultural sites, and the preservation of ethnic traditions. In the article we proved that the development of rural green tourism not only helps to preserve and develop recreational areas in rural areas but also helps to solve socio-economic problems of the village, which reduces rural unemployment by attracting youth and the local population, reproduction of labour potential, slowing down migration processes in villages, increasing the level of infrastructure in the region, replenishing local rural budgets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper researches a role of business ethics in the environment protection, along with respect of the sustainable development modern concept. The modern industry (and agro-industry) and a factory (farm) work development, together with great migrations of people across the oceans and continents, especially during the nineteenth and the beginning of the twentieth century, has led to great changes in a way the people have worked and done business. The economy has surpassed from agriculture and family cooperatives to urban, industrial organizations. These changes impact to individuals, workers, families, a community and the environment, as well as an ascent of a new class of wealthy business leaders, but also new poverty zones, have led to an occurrence of an enhanced ethical debate, not just among an academic community, but among writers, politicians, priests, poets and populists, too. The sustainability fundamental principles in perspective of a man's environment protection comprise an effective management of physical resources, in a way they to be preserved for the future. All bio-systems observe as the one with limited resources and a final capacity, and thereby also the sustainable human activity must act at the level which does not jeopardize the endangered species health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rural development policy in Bulgaria is aimed at achieving sustainable development of the economic sectors, as the rural area is a place for development not only for agricultural activities, but also it offers good prospects for economic development on a regional scale, through adequate business support, job creation and tourism development. Therefore, the interconnection and interdependence between the two economic sectors is especially important to find opportunities for the development of alternative tourism with the formation of unique tourism products and the application of environmentally-friendly agricultural practices in order to achieve higher living standards and economic benefits for local communities. The problem is that the current pandemic conditions of last year and this year impose a number of restrictions to a greater or lesser extent on each of the economic sectors. The aim of our research is related to the study of interconnection and interdependence of key economic sectors -- agriculture and tourism in crisis conditions. The research methods used in the study include: basic scientific research methods, questionnaire survey, summary and synthesis, logical method, tabular and graphical presentation of characteristics and trends. The results of the research can be systematized in several directions: analysis of the connections and interdependence of the sectors through the opportunities for creation of unique tourist products and through diversification of the activities in the rural areas. In conclusion, the pandemic inevitably affects the economic sectors, with greater constraints on the tourism business, where the preferences of potential tourists are focused on domestic alternative tourism. In the construction of unique and specific tourist products in rural areas, the relationship agriculture -- tourism is strongly emphasized in terms of requirements for clean and healthy foods, incl. organic food or the purchase of local food products from the region. The diversification of activities in rural areas through the development of tourism provides an opportunity for the development of entrepreneurial initiatives. The strong connection and interdependence between the economic subjects in the indicated economic branches of key importance is fully manifested in a good combination of the interests of all participants concerned in the process of development of the specific territory/region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the article we have substantiated and conducted statistically assess the impact of the final results of economic activity on the current socio-demographic situation of rural areas in Ukraine. Based on the results of determining the influence of conditioned factors on the level of labour migration of the rural population in Ukraine, we have developed a regression equation. Also, based on the results of the study, we built two cartograms, comparison of which provides an opportunity to assess the dynamics of the formation of the total fertility rate in rural areas (per 1 woman) for 2016 - 2020. We built a cartogram that visualizes the results of grouping regions of Ukraine by natural increase, decrease population in rural areas of Ukraine. The results of our study provide an opportunity to confirm that in the context of Ukraine's official accession to the European Union and the serious challenges of today, the Ukrainian state should perform the functions of regulating the most important spheres of society in general and rural areas in particular. The task of increasing the employment of the rural population should be raised to the level of state priorities, which would provide an opportunity to create new jobs for the rural population in industries that can provide the maximum competitive effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of sustainability or sustainable development has become, especially in recent decades, one without we cannot establish and build a paradigm that meets the necessary and viable elements for a functional society of the future. There is a rich literature on sustainability, but we aim to analyze and bring to light a holistic transdisciplinary perspective useful into learning about a certain part of social reality: quality of life in rural areas of Romania, from the perspective of sustainable development. The main goal of the research we undertake is an analysis of the aspects considered to be relevant and effective in terms of subjective and objective indicators essential into describing a very important phenomenon and social, economic, cultural, spiritual process: quality of life. We capture both the qualitative and quantitative aspects of the key concepts: quality of life, sustainable development, rural environment and we analyze them. We bring into light the concept of sustainable development and its social, economic, cultural and spiritual implications as it is mentioned in Brundtland report. The methodology is based on several complementary working tools. We mainly use, significant and recent INNS and Eurostat statistics on topic, and also integrate a series of indicators - subjective and objective - relevant to clarify the aspects brought in the research. The results of our current study reveal the way sustainable development impact demographic aspects in Romanian rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the last decade, local action groups (LAGs) in Bulgaria have become key organizations supporting the implementation of projects important for rural development. Prerequisites for this are the unique characteristics of the LEADER/CLLD approach, which allow empowerment of the population, capacity building combined with providing access to financial resources, as well as building trust and accumulation of social capital. Since the beginning of the application of the approach in the country, LAGs have been facing some difficulties, but at the same time the opportunities for attracting funds to support a wide range of initiatives at the local level are expanding. In this regard, the aim of this study is based on the analyses of the activities of LAGs in the country, to outline the challenges facing these organizations and to reveal their potential for sustainable development of rural areas. The case study method is applied. The results of the study show a significant potential of LAGs to accelerate the socio-economic processes in rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article considers the main parameters of the sustainable development of the urban and rural environment as a basis for ecological development of the Bulgarian Black Sea region. Based on the problems of urbanization in the post-totalitarian transition in Bulgaria, conclusions and findings are made about the nature and the parameters of the implementation of the second pillar "Green Bulgaria" of the Plan for Recovery and Sustainability of the Republic of Bulgaria. The thesis is defended that the future development of Bulgarian Black Sea region should be based on environmental friendliness and sustainability. An attempt has been made to highlight the positive and negative changes in the ecological development of the Bulgarian Black Sea region over the last three decades. The main guidelines for the necessary changes in the regulatory aspect are presented. They should ensure the protection of the air, soil, water and nature of the Bulgarian Black Sea region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With regard to the agri-food system, the theoretical and methodological basis for the study of inclusive development has been substantiated. The study reveals the concept of inclusive development of the agri-food system, substantiates criteria and indicators, and proposes assessment methods. New risks associated with the COVID-19 pandemic are analyzed in the development of the agro-food system, which has aggravated the existing systemic problems and negatively affected the quality of life of Russians. A comparative analysis of the quality of inclusive development of the agri-food systems of the Saratov region and Russia in the context of the main blocks: growth and development, the fairness of distribution of public goods between all strata and groups of the population, the involvement of all forms of management, food security, environmental sustainability. An integral indicator of the level and quality of inclusive development of the agri-food system of Russia and the Saratov region was calculated. Measures are formulated to facilitate the transition of the agri-food system to an inclusive development model and overcome negative trends in the post-pandemic economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable development in Romania can be achieved only through consensus orchestrated prioritizing people's attitudes and values. In order to achieve a maximum performance, cultural change must precede structural and functional changes, such an approach leading to a lasting transformation. Cultural change is not about social traditions, history, language, art, etc.., But those on the behavior, mentality, attitude towards work, economy and society. Sustainable development have to mean quality and achieve only limited natural capital, social and anthropogenic own or attracted. A drawing resources must be addressed by cost and their global rarity. Sustainable development for Romania, represents the effective management of resources in the national competitiveness and national foreign goods and services. Human health suppliers, health organizations that offer health services and those who need these services, meet on a market, called health services market, whose mechanism has features different from the other markets, not only from the point of view of the two forces, demand and supply, but also from the third party who pays. In the context of globalization, human development, defined as a process of people's expanding possibilities to choose, cannot exist without an appropriate health. People often make choices in the economic, social and political fields, situated in the centre of development policies. From the human health perspective, attention is aimed at quality of the economic development, and not quantity, in three critical domains: expectation and quality of life, educational level and access to all the necessary economic resources in order to lead a decent life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present article exposes the summary of a research project whose purpose is measuring sustainable development in Romania at the level rural areas. Sustainable Development (Sustainable Development in English) means better quality of life now and for future generations. According to the vision of sustainable development, progress integrates immediate and long-term objectives, local actions and global economic and environmental issues, all of which are inseparable. Such a vision of society can not be imposed only by political society as a whole must adopt certain principles (political, economic, social, thinking). Sustainable development can be defined simply as a better quality of life for everyone, both now and for future generations. Sustainable development means: balanced and equitable economic development; high levels of employment, social cohesion and inclusion; a high level of environmental protection and responsible use of natural resources; generating a coherent political system open, transparent and accountable; effective international cooperation to promote global sustainable development (Gothenburg Strategy, 2001). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present article exposes the summary of a research project whose purpose is measuring sustainable development in Romania at the level of rural areas. Sustainable Development (Sustainable Development in English) means better quality of life now and for future generations. According to the vision of sustainable development, progress integrates immediate and long-term objectives, local actions and global economic and environmental issues, all of which are inseparable. Such a vision of society can not be imposed only by political, society as a whole must adopt certain principles (political, economic, social, thinking). Sustainable development can be defined simply as a better quality of life for everyone, both now and for future generations. Sustainable development means: balanced and equitable economic development; high levels of employment, social cohesion and inclusion; a high level of environmental protection and responsible use of natural resources; generating a coherent political system open, transparent and accountable; effective international cooperation to promote global sustainable development (Gothenburg Strategy, 2001). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tourism can exacerbate some environmental problems and increase degradation of the environment. Sustainable tourism, a tourism industry that applies principles of sustainable development can on the contrary assist in maintaining ecosystems and biodiversity. In this regard, ecotourism, a form of sustainable tourism based on the observation of natural areas is an interesting niche. Romania has strong major natural to position in advantage in this market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]