Rural development by afforestation in predominantly agricultural areas: issues and challenges from two areas in Greece

Investigating social acceptability for public forest management policies as a function of social factors

“…However, the specific scenario is the least restricting according to respondents. The low level of restriction can be attributed to the similarities of the proposed scenario with the current management framework (Kalabokidis et al, 2008;Kassioumis et al, 2004). Thus, the implementation of the specific policy does not imply any additional restrictions or changes for the local community.…”

“…In Greece, the majority of forest land is state owned (Papachristou et al, 2009;Siry et al, 2005). Furthermore, decisionmaking processes and policy implementation are conducted by state actors (Kalabokidis et al, 2008;Kassioumis et al, 2004). Some exceptions may be found in the case of forests included in national parks where new management actors have been created consisting of representatives from governmental and non-governmental entities (Papageorgiou & Vogiatzakis, 2006;www.ypeka.gr).…”

Rural Transformation Index: Measuring Rural–Urban Disparities

“…Traditionally, rural development is viewed differently by different people, and such the concept is difficult to specify, measure, and evaluate (Kassioumis et al 2004). The current structure of rural economy and its social systems appear to be much more diverse, complex, sophisticated, and global than those of the last century (Kennedy et al 2001).…”

Environmental representations of local communities' spokespersons in protected areas

“…Trakolis (2001) reported that park residents acknowledged the need of environmental conservation and would be willing to accept environmental regulations in agricultural activities. This change in local attitudes was accompanied by an increase in service related jobs (Kassioumis, Papageorgiou, Christodoulou, Blioumis, Stamou, & Karameris, 2004). In a more recent research, local inhabitants associated rural quality of life with the attractiveness of nature and landscape (Papageorgiou et al, 2005).…”