On September 10, the seminar “Strategic Planning Documents for Communities and Nature Protection. Theory and Practice” was successfully held in a mixed format (in-person/online) at the Bohdan Khmelnytsky Cherkasy National University. This event, organized by the Ukrainian Nature Conservation Group (UNCG) in partnership with the NGO “Conservation GIS of Ukraine” and the NGO “Ecosotsium,” focused on integrating biodiversity conservation into the strategic planning documents of local communities (hromady).
Key Takeaways
The seminar brought together a wide range of professionals, including specialists from:
- Regional State Administrations (Oblast-level government).
- Local Self-Government Bodies (community councils).
- Higher Education Institutions.
- Protected Areas Fund (PZF) Institutions (e.g., National Parks and Reserves).
- Environmental NGOs.
- Organizations specializing in land management and urban planning documentation.
Discussions confirmed that the issue of adequately incorporating biodiversity conservation—specifically through the use of landscape plans within Comprehensive Spatial Development Plans (a key document in Ukraine’s decentralization process)—is highly relevant and urgent. Despite its importance, this topic currently does not receive the necessary attention from society or state authorities.
Next Steps
The materials and video recording from the seminar are now available online for public access and review: https://drive.google.com/drive/u/3/folders/1mwmYY5bY9PsGw-g_Mc7o7BA63nrzgPAo
Based on the seminar’s outcomes, specific recommendations are being prepared to be sent to state authorities to address the identified issues.
We invite all interested parties to submit any proposals, comments, or additions regarding these recommendations by September 22, 2025, to the following email address: [email protected].
