Restoration of Ukrainian forests is an important task that unites the efforts of the state, the community and experts. This issue is critical not only for environmental safety but also for sustainable regional development. Forest plantations play an important role in maintaining ecological balance, climate regulation and enriching biodiversity. Without their proper conservation and restoration, it is impossible to achieve lasting progress in these areas.
Under martial law in Ukraine, there are complex challenges for the conservation of forest resources. Hostilities, fires, massive shelling and destruction have caused significant damage to over 500,000 hectares of forests. This creates serious obstacles to the preservation of the country's natural wealth. Many forest areas remain mined, making access to them impossible and complicating the implementation of restoration measures.
An additional complication is the situation in the temporarily occupied regions, where uncontrolled and barbaric deforestation is taking place. This not only destroys valuable ecosystems, but also threatens to deplete the natural resources on which the regional economies rely. This irresponsible activity will have long-term consequences for local communities and the natural environment.
The Verkhovna Rada Committee on Environmental Policy and Nature Management emphasises the importance of this issue. The MPs are convinced that the conservation of forest resources should become one of the priorities of state policy, especially under martial law.
Restoration of forests should be seen as a key element of Ukraine's post-war reconstruction. Forests play an important role in maintaining ecosystem services such as air purification, soil stabilisation, erosion prevention and water balance. They are not only a source of natural resources, but also provide numerous social and economic benefits, including employment in forestry and tourism.
Restoring damaged forest areas will require concerted efforts at the national and local levels. This will include planning, development of restoration strategies, mobilisation of finance and human resources, and active community participation. Ministries, scientific institutions, civil society organisations and the private sector must work together to achieve this goal.
After all, forest restoration will contribute not only to environmental sustainability, but also to economic recovery, improved quality of life, and national security. Ukraine's forests should become a symbol of recovery and resilience for a nation that has been through the hardships of war.
