THE EVOLUTION AND MODELS OF RURAL AREAS: A SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT APPROACH

The paper focuses on the problem of choice and evaluation of rural areas with respect to sustainable rural development. The following research methods were employed: investigation and participation, case studies, modelling, expert evaluation. It can be concluded, that the historic evolution of the Lithuanian countryside is highly interrelated with social transformations. In addition, homesteads as well as their patterns are among the most important factors of formation of rural areas and landscapes. Indeed, the comparison of American, German, Danish, and Lithuanian rural models stressed the exclusive importance of traditions and mentality. Lithuanian rural model consists of homesteads, settlements, and villages. According to sustainable development approach, homesteads satisfies the economic and environmental criteria to the highest extent, whereas villages are peculiar with high social opportunities. However, the social as well as psychological attitudes of citizens remain an important factor.