The cultural value of protected areas as models of sustainable development

Recognizing the urgent need to accelerate the transition to truly sustainable societies, we believe that the divides that still characterize the views of the economic, social and environmental dimensions of humans’ activities can obstacle the creation and maintenance of conditions for sustainable development. Accordingly, this contribution proposes a managerial and cultural view of land use based on the adoption of a systems perspective. Focus is on protected areas as a significant example of a still dominant view of conservation and protection that should be more effectively complemented with actions of enhancement for development. Findings highlight the potential role of protected areas in promoting models of sustainable development by creating a cultural bridge between protected and non-protected areas. The key elements of an effective management approach of protected areas to achieve sustainable development are discussed in an interdisciplinary and integrated way, but referring especially to the Italian situation and its territory.