Modern role of resource universities for ensuring sustainable environmental development of mining regions

Purpose. The concept of sustainable development which implies balance between the level of technological development, economic, social and environmental components, becomes very urgent environmental issue due to the depletion of natural resources and increasing environmental problems. Leading world universities specializing in the mining and further use of natural resources is an important component of socio-economic and technological development of modern society. The objective of this paper is to analyze current situation in the world regarding use of exhaustible minerals and energy resources and determine contemporary reference points of engineering education at resource universities in accordance with decisions of the World Forum of Resource Universities for sustainable development. Methodology. The paper is based on analytical study of world trends in the development and utilization of mineral resources and scientific rationale of resource universities strategic activity to ensure training specialists in the field of resource management. Findings. A brief evaluation of major mineral resources consumption in the world is carried out. The strategic mission of resource universities for sustainable ecological development of territories and overcoming of complex socio-economic and technical and ecological problems in mining regions is determined. Originality. Strategic fundamentals of engineering education development regarding establishment of a common international platform in the field of the world natural resources consumption for ensuring sustainable development are determined and substantiated in the paper. Practical value. Practical implementation of the provisions and proposals of the World Forum of Resource Universities for sustainable development is the key to well-being of modern technogenic society in the conditions of resource depletion and environmental crisis.