Economic crisis as an opportunity for human-centred and greener development of Greek regions

Abstract

In the midst of the prolonged recession, day-in, day-out, a number of small local firms, mainly in agro-food and tourist sectors, are emerging all over the country. Too often it is taken for granted that these initiatives are always associated with benign and desired outcomes: they can instantly provide new employment opportunities and income to the victims of the current crisis, give a strong boost to local economies and lead to more just and sustainable development. However these qualities are not given, neither guaranteed. Local firms are equally likely to be just or unjust, sustainable or unsustainable. This is certainly the case for a big number of traditional food SMEs operating in Greece.The paper, which draws material from a recent field work survey, attempts to evaluate the development prospects of these initiatives and to identify the crucial qualities they should espouse to contribute to a more human and green development