EXPLORING THE DETERMINANTS OF LOCAL PEOPLE'S ATTITUDE TOWARDS NATIONAL PARKS IN POLAND

The article examines the attitudes of local communities towards national parks in Poland. Specifically, it aims to recognize the main factors determining the residents' individual attitudes towards the Babia Gora National Park (Polish Carpathian Mts). The analysis is based on the results of questionnaire surveys carried out among the residents of the municipalities within which the park is located. Research results show that individual attitudes of residents towards national parks are determined by: a) the perception of the park's managing entity, b) the level of access to natural resources covered by legal protection, and c) a subjectively assessed balance of gains and losses related to the park's impact on the lives of individuals and the local economy. The analysis concluded, inter alia, that not all factors determining the residents' attitudes and opinions create the potential for social conflict. Moreover, the entities managing national parks should be more involved in creating development opportunities for local communities. This issue should also be more widely reflected in nature conservation policy in Poland.