Ukraine has adopted a new government resolution establishing a unified legal framework for the management and use of peatland areas. The measure is designed to strengthen environmental protection, support climate resilience, and align the country more closely with European Union environmental and climate standards. The resolution was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine as part of broader efforts to improve sustainable land management and ecosystem conservation.
The policy was developed by the Ministry of Economy, Environment and Agriculture of Ukraine with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Global Environment Facility. The initiative forms part of a wider environmental project focused on promoting sustainable livestock production and ecosystem conservation in northern Ukraine. The framework also incorporates international environmental practices and recommendations.
Peatlands are considered vital ecosystems because they store large amounts of carbon, regulate water systems, reduce the risks of droughts and floods, and help maintain biodiversity. However, the absence of a clear legal framework in the past contributed to environmental degradation and the loss of important ecosystem functions across many peatland regions.
Under the new resolution, future land-use decisions involving peatland areas must prioritize environmental conservation. New land plots or changes in land designation will only be allowed if the intended use supports the ecological functions of peatlands. Approved uses include nature conservation, recreation, forestry, water management, and cultural heritage activities.
The resolution represents a shift away from intensive economic exploitation toward a more balanced and sustainable natural resource management model. Ukrainian authorities believe this approach will strengthen environmental security, improve long-term climate resilience, and generate broader economic benefits through sustainable land governance.
Deputy Minister Iryna Ovcharenko clarified that the resolution does not affect current land-use rights or existing economic activities on peatlands. The new regulations apply only to future decisions involving land formation or changes in land-use designation. Exceptions will also remain in place for national security, defence infrastructure, public necessity projects, and strategic facilities.
The State Service of Ukraine for Geodesy, Cartography and Cadastre highlighted plans to create a dedicated spatial data layer for peatlands within the State Land Cadastre. Officials said this system would improve transparency, accuracy, and public access to environmental land information, enabling authorities and communities to make better-informed decisions regarding land management and environmental risks.
UNDP representatives described the resolution as an important milestone in implementing international best practices for peatland protection and restoration. The organization is continuing to work with Ukrainian authorities to integrate peatland information into the national cadastre system, supporting long-term ecosystem conservation and sustainable development efforts across the country.
