The mountain product in the equation of the local economies

Abstract

Taking into account their specificity (being characterised by physical and by structural disadvantages), the mountains need adapted policies, as a consequence of the social, economic and environmental changes. The mountain areas need innovative solutions in order to diversify their economies and to care for their precious environmental and cultural resources. For the development of the mountain area the current challenges in social, economic and environmental challenges should be considered. The mountain area is known for a low degree of pollution, which adds value to the foods produced in this region, a phenomenon already perceived by the market. The mountain products, traditional, ecological and of high quality, have great capacity to contribute to the developments of the local communities, from an economic and social point of view, and raising the awareness of the farmers and the general public on their economic potential, as well as the importance of maintaining the biodiversity and the traditional agricultural practices, represents the starting point for the economic development of the mountain area. The use of the optional quality term” mountain product” by the local producers of agri-food products could engourage consumers, by gaining their trust and by offering them the guarantee for consumption. This will have positive effects on the development and will increase the competitivity of the farms and the farmers’ income, thus ensuring the technical progress of the mountain area. The mountain products have a large capacity to contribute to the development of the local communities, from an economic and social point of view, and raising the awareness of the farmers and the general public on their economic potential and on the importance of maintaining the biodiversity and the traditional agricultural practices, represents the starting point for the sustainable development of the mountain areas.