Despite their geographical isolation and peripherality, rural and remote islands significantly contribute to their regional economies through tourism and maritime activities. However, these activities also threaten the islands' sustainable development and lead to social exclusion and slower economic growth.
Changing communities' perceptions about sustainable island management, including fishing practices, sewage and water management is therefore vital, as well as consistent governments' commitments on better connectedness, through affordable ferry transport, communication and green technologies, and community engagement in the decision-making process. Both seem to have contributed to recent signs of repopulation and resilience.
Dr. Zrinka Mendas will discuss rural islands' development, funding opportunities for island governance, and macro regional strategies within the UK and EU, especially for rural Scottish islands, Åland islands and Croatian islands.
