Fostering Sustainability in the Balkan Wine Industry: Challenges and Strategic Solutions

Abstract

The wine industry in the Balkans holds significant potential for fostering sustainable regional development, but it also faces numerous environmental, economic, social, and regulatory challenges. Through a qualitative study based on semi-structured interviews with professionals in the Balkan wine industry, this article explores the most pressing sustainability challenges and proposes strategic solutions for overcoming these barriers. Grounded in sustainability theories, including the Triple Bottom Line (TBL) framework and Stakeholder theory, the findings highlight the collaborative initiatives, technological innovation, implementation of circular economy principles, policy reform, and social initiatives as pivotal to fostering sustainable practices. This research contributes to the literature on regional sustainable development by offering new insights into industry-specific challenges and solutions, providing a conceptual framework for further exploration and policy formulation in the context of the Balkans.