ENThe publication presents the issues of sustainable development of rural areas in the context of eff ective resource management. The issues of their protection and sustainable use were combined, taking into account the requirements of various areas (economic, social, cultural, legal and environmental protection). The main types of resources, functions and signifi cance related to their use were analyzed. The consequences of changes in the environment, as well as the possibilities of solving and possible threats to the most current problems were determined. Attention was paid to the most important environmental components – air, water, climate, landscape and biodiversity problems. The publication emphasizes the sustainable management of natural resources – the use of natural resources will bring many benefi ts to inhabitants of rural areas. A study evaluating the status of natural resources, management measures and value for the sustainable development of the Zasliai Community in the Kaisiadoris region has been described here. The study identifi es and justifi es the directions of improvement of natural resources management, in accordance with the components of sustainable development (economic, environmental and socio-social). Keywords: management of natural resources, management based on the needs of the community, sustainable development of the rural areas. [From the publication]