STUDY OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC PROBLEMS OF SINGLE-INDUSTRY TOWNS FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

This article presents the results of a study analyzing the socio-economic and environmental condition of the Shu, Zhanatas and Karatau settlements in Kazakhstan. These single-industry towns, with their high environmental sensitivity, were the focus of our research project, which aims to identify the main factors influencing their sustainable development. The study seeks not only to understand the factors shaping the socio-economic and environmental dynamics of these townships, but also to explore the mechanisms for realizing the Sustainable Development Goals adopted by the United Nations.

The purpose of this scientific study forms the basis for analyzing the socio-economic and environmental condition of single-industry towns in Kazakhstan. The main objective is to identify the key factors affecting their development and, ultimately, the sustainability of the entire region. The data obtained in the course of the study have important implications for the development not only of these regions, but also of similar territories in the Republic of Kazakhstan. The study also examined the mechanisms of implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals defined by the UN in foreign cities. This made it possible to identify similarities and differences in the approaches to sustainable development applied abroad and in the context of the monotowns under study. The research methodology included the use of quantitative sociological method, in particular, questionnaires. In addition, statistical and comparative analysis was carried out. This became necessary in the light of the lack of a clear methodology for taking into account the resources and potential of regions when developing development plans, despite the existence of numerous development plans in the region.

The scientific significance of the work consists in conducting a comprehensive study aimed at analyzing the socio-economic and environmental condition of the above-mentioned single-industry towns. This study allowed to identify the main factors influencing the sustainable development of these regions, as well as ways to implement the Sustainable Development Goals approved by the UN in foreign cities. 

    Keywords: sustainable development, single-industry town, economic development, social development, environmental development, sustainable development goals.