Environmental Legislation of the Russian Federation from Consumers’ Ideology to Value-Conscious Approach to Natural Resources

Purpose: The paper analyses the current state of environmental legislation, identifying its current trends and debatable provisions. In addition to the above, it is common knowledge that a coherent system of environmental legal provisions the goal of the research has been achieved through the use of general scientific and specific scientific research methods, comprehensive, complete and objective analysis of statistical data, as well as provisions of domestic and foreign legislation, as well as the existing law enforcement practice. Findings: Since the natural resource potential of the Russian Federation is the basis of its socio-economic well-being, exploitation of natural resources will prevail over sustainable development goals for a rather long time. We arrive at conclusion that many regulatory legal acts in this field are adopted in violation of public opinion, almost covertly. This has been true for recent years, when there has been an increased anthropogenic impact on nature. The extensive use of market levers with regard to the use of natural resources cultivates the ideology of monetarism prevailing over the interests of society. Site development of water conservation zones, shared areas in cities and towns, commercialization of forestry relations, mitigation of the regime of maintenance of specially protected natural areas etc. does not reflect the interests of the majority of society; moreover, it is not a raison d’etat as well. Originality/value: The balance between the interests of the State, business and society has not yet been achieved in the field of protection environment. In this regard, the authors justify the need for a balanced approach to the use of natural resources, which are not a strategic reserve, but serve as a factor in ensuring public needs for natural values and creating a comfortable living environment for Russians.