A System Dynamics model of the rural socio-environmental system of the SW Messinia and Gialova lagoon

This System Dynamics model describes interactions between different sectors of the rural social ecological system and the land sea interactions of Southwest Messinia and Gialova coastal lagoon, in Greece. The model allows simulation of the current situation as well as scenario projections and possible policy solutions identified through a participatory process with stakeholders from all involved sectors. Model output is presented as impacts on multiple Key Performance Indicators of sustainability including environmental, social and economic aspects. Through these simulations, the model aims to support integrated planning and better informed decision making.
The structure of the System Dynamics model was co-developed through a series of consecutive workshops with representatives from all sectors, which fostered shared learning and validation throughout the development process  Throughout the participatory process which also included, expert interviews and questionnaires between 2018 and 2022, representatives from all sectors identified the main interactions between sectors and developed a vision for the area that could help stir the SW Messinia into a sustainable and resilient pathway. The Mental maps of the interactions between sectors that were developed during this participatory process formed the starting point for the System Dynamics model and can be found here.