Field ethnographic research in order to assess the needs of the inhabitants of the Lassithi plateau area and to explore the prospects of developing terms and conditions for the development of alternative models of sustainable development that respect the social, cultural and environmental system as well as the local social peculiarities . In the direction, the local value system, the ways of thinking and living, the mentalities and perceptions of the local community and the horizon of their expectations were studied. Research allows to identify and describe specific areas of need, to discover factors that contribute to their perpetuation, to highlight ways of thinking, codes of conduct and local values. The ultimate goal is to formulate a strategic participatory planning for addressing needs and problem situations and developing solutions that will be compatible with the local value system.