Demographic Problems as Hindrance for Sustainable Development of a Mining Region (the Case of Kemerovo Region)

Abstract

Positive dynamics of the general indicators of population reproduction is both the basis and the goal of sustainable development in a region. The analysis shows that the demographic problems of the studied mining region hinder the sustainable development of Kemerovo Region (Kuzbass). These issues include long-term population decline, age and gender imbalances in the structure of the population, an increase in the number of citizens older than the working age, and an increase in the demographic burden on the economically active population. The resource and industrial nature of Kuzbass plays a significant role in the dynamics of these processes. The study examines the relationship between demographic indicators and those of sustainable development. The influence of demographic processes was studied by the method of correlation and regression analysis. The authors found negative impact of the dynamics in the population reproduction processes on the number of people employed in the region’s economy, on the gross regional product and investment in fixed assets. A statistically significant relationship was established between mortality rate of the entire population, mortality of the working age group and indicators of sustainable development. The reasons for the high mortality rates in the region include the employment of a significant part of the workforce in hard and hazardous working conditions, high occupational morbidity, injuries, adverse environmental conditions caused by intensive mining, air pollution, and industrial waste. It is concluded that in developing a regional social and economic policy, the positive dynamics of population reproduction processes should be considered as a key factor in the region’s sustainable development.