Environmental Competitiveness of Regions – Attempt of Conceptualization

Abstract

This paper presents the theoretical basis for the conception of environmental competitiveness of regions. It was pointed out, that the less developed regions are in a possession of a very precious commodity, i.e. their natural environment. There are wide possibilities to use their natural environment as a trading mark and in this way to spur their economic development. This could both stimulate the economic prosperity of the regions and contribute to enhancing the quality and quantity of their natural environment; in order to sell a product one has to be sure that it is of the best quality. Taking better care of the natural environment would further contribute to deepening the regions' green specialization and enhancing their level of competitiveness on the national or even international scale. In fact, it is capable to use a new term for this idea – environmental competitiveness of regions.

Note: Downloadable document is in Polish.

Keywords: environmental protection, competitiveness, region, environmental competitiveness, natural environment

JEL Classification: Q13, Q2, Q32, Q41, R11, M14