In February 2025, representatives of the Ukrainian Nature Conservation Group (UNCG) and partners from the International Charity Organization “Environment-People-Law” (EPL) undertook a significant working visit to the Czech Republic, where they had the opportunity to visit the Nature Conservation Agency of the Czech Republic (NCA). This visit marked an important step in the exchange of experience between the two countries in the field of nature conservation and the implementation of European conservation standards.
During the mission, Ukrainian conservationists, together with their Czech colleagues, explored the Czech Republic’s unique protected areas, including Natura 2000 sites, which have become a symbol of effective natural resource management in the country. The visit focused on practical methods of protecting natural ecosystems, such as conservation grazing, combating invasive species, and restoring degraded natural habitats.
Meetings with NCA experts provided insights into the funding and management mechanisms of these areas, including through EU programs, as well as the role of local communities in supporting conservation initiatives. Ukrainian experts had the chance to observe how these approaches are implemented in practice, which is crucial for the further development of conservation activities in Ukraine.
Discussions centered on the development and implementation of management plans for protected areas, which are a vital tool for ecosystem conservation. The ideas and strategies developed during this visit could soon form the basis for introducing new conservation approaches in Ukraine.
For example, a common practice in the Czech Republic involves clearing meadow steppes overgrown with shrubs and trees and creating NATURA 2000 protected areas on these lands. These areas are maintained through grazing, and the newly cleared plots allow local residents to lease them for sheep or goat farming. Even small protected areas have dedicated scientific staff who monitor compliance with the established management regime.
Thanks to this visit, Ukraine gained valuable experience and new opportunities to improve the management of natural areas and implement European nature conservation standards. This is an important step toward sustainable development and preserving nature for future generations.
The mission occurred within the Life project “Conservation of Natural Heritage for Life in Ukraine.”
