ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses sustainable lifestyles from the point of view of individuals and households living under conditions of economic crisis in four countries located in southeastern Europe. It investigates whether and how strategies for coping with economic crises have consequences for sustainable consumption practices. The hegemonic discourse about economic growth and technological development could be usefully complemented by significant changes in social practices. The chapter considers sustainable lifestyles in the context of economic crisis and societal transition. It defines the five groups of clusters using the basic lifestyle dimensions and treated the household either as a production or consumption unit with a proactive relationship or a reactive relationship. The proactive approach characterized by a change in consumption behavior is more prevalent among capital-rich households whose members work in managerial and professional occupations and it emphasizes investments in economic activities.
