Application of the United Nations Framework Classification for Resources criteria during the assessment, accounting and management of Ukraine’s mineral resources

Abstract

Analytical studies on the assessment of mineral raw material resources (MRM) in the context of the circular and resource-efficient (low-carbon) economy development at the global and regional level have revealed a number of problematic issues. Abovementioned problems are related to the assessment method (classification) and various approaches to MRM accounting and management. The application of different classification systems, approaches to accounting and permitting procedures for the project development complicates the formation of a unified strategy for achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs) in the field of MRM supply and management, in particular, in the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) region. Considering the practical experience of applying the United Nations Framework Classification for Resources (UNFC) in Ukraine, as well as results of the research conducted by the Expert Group on Resource Management of the UNECE Committee on Sustainable Energy, in addition to a comprehensive analysis of the current state, methodological approaches to the “harmonization” of classification features and accounting of MRM deposits assessed based on standards that have lost their relevance have been suggested in the article. Presented studies on classification systems and accounting approaches indicate the necessity and relevance of creating single (unified) approaches to the MRM assessment and management. Developed methodological approaches to the actualization of the undistributed subsoil fund of Ukraine include the compliance of recorded reserves with the Classification of Mineral Reserves and Resources of the State Subsoil Fund based on three fundamental criteria: determination of the degree of geological knowledge (Axis G); clarification of the degree of feasibility study (Axis F); and by the commercial significance (Axis E).

Keywords

• accounting of mineral raw materials
• mineral raw materials
• unfc
• unrms
• mineral resource management
• categories