Polina Murashevska becomes the first Climate Manager Star 2025 in Ukraine

Polina Murashevska, Head of the Department of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Zhytomyr City Council, was recognised as the winner of the Climate Manager Star 2025 national competition organised by the Covenant of Mayors – East (CoM East). The award was presented by Serhii Sukhomlyn, Head of the State Agency for Restoration and Infrastructure Development of Ukraine, and Oksana Kysil, CoM East National Expert, during the Municipal Development Coordination Platform on Climate and Energy on 12 December 2025.

The Climate Manager Star award was introduced by CoM East in 2025 to recognise municipalities and professionals demonstrating leadership in climate governance, strategic planning and the implementation of climate action at the local level. The competition highlights practical approaches to climate change mitigation and adaptation, aligned with national priorities and Ukraine’s European integration pathway.

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Over the past two years, Polina Murashevska and her team have led the development of the Environmental Strategy of the Zhytomyr community to 2050. The strategy sets long-term objectives for the city, including climate change adaptation, greenhouse gas emissions reduction and the integration of climate considerations into municipal decision-making. The work combines analytical assessment, governance reforms and the practical implementation of climate measures at the local level.

The recognition of Zhytomyr reflects the growing role of Ukrainian municipalities in shaping climate policy and implementing long-term climate strategies, even under challenging conditions. Through initiatives such as the Climate Manager Star competition, the CoM East supports the professional community of local climate practitioners and promotes the exchange of good practices among municipalities.