engleski

Sustainable development in island communities: the example of Postira

The paper presents the case study of Postira, a small place on the island of Brač. The reason for choosing this place is its specific development: there, marine fish production, agriculture, fishing and tourism are equally developed, which contributes to the balanced progress of Postira. The main hypothesis of our research is that Postira is a positive example of sustainable development because it combines the key elements of ecological, economic, social and cultural sustainability. The aim of the research was to establish how these elements were present in tourism, economy, agriculture and industry of Postira. In the research we used semi-structured interviews with the key actors responsible for the development of the place (local politicians, tourist board representatives, apartment owners, restaurant and coffee bar owners, the agricultural cooperative farmers, artisans, olive growers, cultural workers, artists). 26 interviews were conducted with special attention paid to the development potential of Postira, its key actors, its positive and negative aspects, possible scenarios for tourism and economy, main goals, communication on the island. The main actors' opinions, their first hand knowledge of the problems as well as their proposals were crucial in determining future development goals. Documentation and statistical data were used in order to explain the demographic framework and tourism carrying capacity of the place. Some general determinants of the Adriatic islands were examined and defined regarding sustainable development. In the research, history, agriculture, economy and tourism of the island of Brač were placed in the context of other Adriatic islands. Research results point to some positive and negative factors of development. The local authorities have considerably improved strategic planning, the infrastructure and the capacity of the place. In Postira there are different resources, that is, simultaneous development of industry, tourism (three hotels and projects for another one) and agriculture. Industry (a sardine factory) appears to be the key factor for development. Preservation of natural resources, cultural heritage and demographic stability are also important dimensions of sustainable development. Our respondents mention some negative aspects which slow down the progress: not all tourist facilities have been fully used ; one more hotel might cause the loss of identity of the place ; there are difficulties in branding autochthonous island products due to the lack of communication and cooperation on the island ; different places on the island develop disproportionately because there is no adequate strategic vision for the whole island. Defining general goals and strategies for the island of Brač is a top priority in further planning. Also it is vital to enhance the place identity in terms of economy and tourism. Tourism, agriculture and industry need to be in harmony with ecology and the carrying capacity of the place. The right political strategy and responsible collective and individual behaviour of all actors are necessary for achieving these objectives.

sustainable development ; island community ; case study

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