Carpathian convention: ecological and legal analysis of Ukraine's implementation of its obligations in the context of sustainable development goals
Abstract
Purpose. The objective of the study is to conduct an environmental and legal analysis of Ukraine's implementation of the provisions of the Framework Convention on the Protection and Sustainable Development of the Carpathians, as well as to assess the current environmental status of ecosystems in the Carpathian region of Ukraine in accordance with the criteria and effectiveness of compliance with the requirements set forth in this international treaty.
Methods. System analysis, SWOT analysis, calculation method.
Results. A detailed analysis of the implementation of the Decisions of the 7th Conference of the Parties confirmed the adoption of the Carpathian Framework Programme on Biodiversity, the intensification of cross-border cooperation on large carnivores, the integration of climate risk assessment into forestry, and the promotion of traditional cattle breeding to the UNESCO NCS list. By systematizing commitments, the direct correspondence of the provisions of the Carpathian Convention protocols to the UN Sustainable Development Goals has been confirmed. According to the results of the SWOT analysis, priority efforts should focus on cross-sectoral cooperation, the implementation of scientifically sound spatial planning, and the maximum use of positive experiences from cross-border projects. The calculated indicators of the PZF insularity index range from 0.32 to 0.41, confirming the fragmentation of forest areas and the disruption of ecological links, especially in the Chernivtsi region. The analysis of ecological cases confirmed the impact of local threats on the implementation of the Convention and demonstrated the potential for cooperation between the state, communities, and international partners.
Conclusions. A comprehensive ecological and legal analysis has shown that the Framework Convention on the Protection and Sustainable Development of the Carpathians is a key international mechanism for integrating global commitments (UN SDGs) into national environmental policy. Ukraine is taking consistent steps to implement the Protocols of the Carpathian Convention and has significant potential for full and effective implementation of the Convention by strengthening cross-sectoral cooperation.
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References
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