A Conceptual Model for the Development of Rural Territories of Regions Based on the Principles of Green Economy

Introduction. In recent years in Russian theory and practice more and more attention has been paid to the transition to a green economy through the introduction of innovative clean technologies that ensure resource conservation and increased attention to environmental protection and biodiversity conservation. Rural territories of the country’s regions are significantly differentiated by all elements of sustainable development: economy, quality of life and the state of the environment. If the first two elements are actively promoted through the implementation of targeted programs and projects, then the preservation of natural potential, the prevention of environmental degradation by reducing its pollution is not being implemented enough. So, the purpose of the article is, on the basis of the study, to determine the priority areas for the introduction of green technologies in agriculture, contributing to the solution of environmental and social problems of administrative-territorial entities. Materials and Methods. The study was conducted on the materials of official data of Rosstat, reports of state executive authorities (for example, the Ministry of Natural Resources of Russia), as well as other information and analytical organizations. The empirical material was processed by using statistical methods (groupings, cluster analysis), which represents an assessment of the socio-economic situation, human development, the state of the environment of 14 subjects of the Volga Federal District, on the basis of which directions for the transition of rural areas to a green course of development are proposed. Results. The transformation of rural management is considered in the paradigm of sustainable development with an emphasis on nature conservation through the development of scientifically based regional models for the phased solution of acute environmental problems in accordance with financial capabilities and competencies. A conceptual model of transition to the green course of sustainable development of rural areas is proposed, including diagnostics of problems, conditions and factors of the state of the environment, social sphere and economy. Discussion and Conclusion. Due to the existing complexity of the rural economy and significant differences in the composition and structure of economic entities in the regions, their strategic goals and priorities for sustainable development are not the same. A model of purposeful transition to organic agriculture has been developed for regions with a predominance of small forms of management.