First Climate Change Adaptation Strategies Presented in Ukraine

On September 18, 2024, the APENA 3 project, in collaboration with Ukraine’s Ministry of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources and with support from the European Union, presented Ukraine’s first climate adaptation strategies for three pilot regions: Mykolaiv, Lviv, and Ivano-Frankivsk.

During the event “Climate Adaptation in Ukraine”, held in Kyiv, experts shared the results of long-term forecasting and explained how different sectors of the economy and daily life can adapt to the evolving climate. The presentation included a breakdown of the necessary adaptation measures and their estimated costs for each region.

The strategies, developed over several years, provide an in-depth analysis of the current climate conditions in the pilot regions, forecast changes up to the end of the century, and assess vulnerabilities and risks to various economic sectors. The resulting recommendations include specific adaptation actions such as early warning systems, protective infrastructure, irrigation and drainage systems, public awareness campaigns, and smart grids.

The total cost for implementing 168 climate adaptation measures in the Lviv region is projected at €273.7 million. Mykolaiv will require 171 measures costing €155.7 million, while Ivano-Frankivsk will need 158 measures with an estimated cost of €152.65 million.

Despite ongoing war, Ukraine continues to prioritize climate policy and environmental reforms. The country’s post-war recovery plans are expected to integrate climate goals and adaptation efforts. This year, Ukraine achieved several key milestones in its climate strategy, including the approval of a National Climate Strategy until 2035 and an action plan through 2026, with the adoption of a framework climate law expected soon. These developments align with the Paris Climate Agreement, which Ukraine has committed to.

Torsten Wöllert, Energy, Climate, and Environmental Advisor at the EU Delegation to Ukraine, emphasized the importance of climate adaptation as a critical component of Ukraine’s long-term recovery and the global response to climate change. He also highlighted the collaborative efforts between Ukraine’s Ministry of Environmental Protection and the APENA 3 project in advancing climate resilience at both national and regional levels.

Oksana Kysil, the National Expert of the Covenant of Mayors East, was among the key participants, contributing her expertise to the event and underscoring the importance of local and regional cooperation in advancing climate resilience.

The presentation was led by key APENA 3 project experts, including climatologist Svitlana Krakowska and Antonis Sakalis, with participation from representatives of the European Commission, IPCC, regional administrations, and city governments. The event also featured discussion panels on Ukraine’s national and regional climate adaptation policies and adaptation strategies for cities, with contributions from international institutions and local authorities.

Source: euneighbourseast.eu