GREEN ECONOMY AS A DEVELOPMENT MODEL OF EASTERN CROATIA

Previous studies of economic trends and developmental features of Eastern Croatia undoubtedly point to a continuous gap between the counties of this region in relation to the Croatian average. The results of the conducted analyses indicate an increase in developmental divergence, i.e. regional disparities, and extremely unfavourable population trends are identified as the key factor of negative economic developments. Aiming to create a successful development model, starting from the existing comparative advantages and specificities of Eastern Croatia, the authors analysed possible effects of implementation of the so-called, green economy" as an appropriate model of economic development based on the principles of sustainable development. Starting from the theoretical and methodological framework of green economy, the paper analyses necessary preconditions for its implementation in Eastern Croatia, and provides arguments for transformation of the current economic structure of the region towards strategic selection and implementation of development policies in line with the principles of green economy.