THE DEVELOPMENT OF RURAL AREAS IN CROATIA AND ITS IMPORTANCE FOR THE LANDSCAPE - THE EXAMPLE OF BARANJA

Abstract

The paper describes the development and presents the goals of agricultural development with the aim of sustainability. Using the example of Baranja (a part of the region located in Croatia) and the model of mixed Family Agricultural Farms (FFAs) that deal with ecological production, but also the sale of finished products and processed products, as well as tourism and the application of the "circular guest" model, it is shown an overall model of how it is possible to maintain the tradition of village organization and achieve rural development with the goal of sustainable development. Preservation of natural resources (soil, water and air and overall environmental values) through the application of ecological production, keeping the dimensions of the existing traditional rural construction renovated with old traditional agricultural estates, but also through the application of modern technologies of agricultural production, as well as the connection of agriculture and tourism, programs outlined by laws are implemented, EU regulations and rules, while achieving economic growth of rural communities.