Multiplying Effects in the Local Economy through the Sustainable Development of the Cultural and Environmental stock. The Case of Symi

Abstract

Sustainable development proposals utilizing the environmental and cultural reserve of remoted areas, help to preserve and maintain the cultural heritage and nature, while further strengthening the local economy, and boosting tourist activity. This article aims to assess the socio-economic effects of the sustainable development proposals for the island of Symi, which utilize the environmental and cultural reserve of the region. The assessment concerns economic values, such as the Gross Domestic Product and the contribution in terms of production value, both at regional and national levels. The scenario has been made based on the increase in tourism expected. For the implementation of the research, bibliographic research was conducted concerning sustainable development and how it is related to investment, tourism, cultural heritage, and the environment. Furthermore, the current situation was identified regarding the touristic scheme on the island. All the above led to the assumptions formed, based on which the input-output model was applied for the socio-economic assessment, which examined the direct and indirect effects on the economy. Sustainable development proposals have positive economic results and depending on the extent of the investments, the economic effects are formulated.