Assessment of Social Effects of the National Natural Parks' Functioning: Analysis and Perspectives

Abstract

Abstract National parks around the world play a significant role in the development of local areas through tourism, recreation, and education. That is why it is now so important to correctly evaluate the social effects of their operation and to join the efforts of local authorities and park management in achieving sustainable development. In this study, the research was conducted on the example of social evaluation and effects of national parks of Ukraine. Since Ukraine is at war, only its western part is able to maintain a slightly below average economy, which affects the adequate assessment of national parks. Naturally valuable territories provide a wide range of ecosystem, ecological and social services. The main goal of this work has been social assessment of national parks to support the economic development of local self-government units through the use of national parks in the process of sustainable development using an effective ecosystem protection system, in particular in the context of the implementation of international experience.