The transformation of the socio-ecological system of a region (case study of the Volga region)

The current state of the environment is characterized by the globalization of environmental problems. Human economic activity has become a natural factor that allows us to consider social and environmental systems with an emphasis on the social component, as environmental consciousness and human behavior is determined by the nature of human relations with each other. In a particular socio-cultural space, the attitude of a human to nature can be manifested in a special way both in its value (eco-consciousness and eco-culture) and activity (eco-behavior) component. That is, environmental problems also have different spatial manifestations in certain regions, in different territories, depending on the socio-economic situation, the level and characteristics of eco-culture, etc. The study of transformations of socio-ecological systems at the regional level of space is thus a significant social problem. According to the results of specific sociological studies in the cities of the Volga Region - Astrakhan and Volgograd - the population demonstrated elements of both eco-centric and consumer consciousness. There is also a discrepancy between people’s natural-like attitudes and real behavior, many of whom prioritize survival attitudes. A significant number of respondents do not consider it effective to improve the environmental situation to change their own behavior. The passive-contemplative attitude towards nature is complemented by disappointment in the effectiveness of institutional measures to protect the environment, including the activities of authorities and the media. The discrepancy between the values of eco-culture and everyday practices is manifested in ignoring personal participation in environmental activities, reducing environmental concerns and increasing environmental passivity, lack of predictive environmental awareness, containing ideas about the long-term consequences of pro- or anti-environmental activities. Such characteristics of eco-consciousness and eco-behavior are insufficient to implement the model of sustainabledevelopment of the socio-ecological system of a region. In a situation of growing importance of the subjective factor in modern everyday life it is necessary to form responsible individualism as an element of eco-consciousness and eco-behavior.