Environmental and economic assessment of the forest management system of Ukraine in the context of climate change

Abstract

The purpose of the study is a comprehensive ecological and economic assessment of the current state of the forest management system in Ukraine, identifying the main internal and external factors affecting its sustainability, as well as substantiating the directions of its improvement taking into account modern challenges. The following scientific methods were used in the study: expert survey of forestry specialists to assess the effectiveness of programs, the level of adaptation to climate change, the state of infrastructure, human resources capacity and the readiness of the system to implement strategic tasks; strategic SWOT analysis to identify strengths and weaknesses, opportunities and threats to the industry; a graphical method for visualizing the results of the study; an analytical generalization method for forming conclusions and recommendations. The information basis of the study is the results of the questionnaire and the analysis of statistical information.The results of the study indicate that the forest management system in Ukraine is at the stage of partial adaptation, with positive developments in the field of certification, digitalization and strategic planning, but with significant limitations in the field of monitoring, innovation, financing and staffing. Using SWOT analysis, strategic opportunities for the development of the industry related to the expansion of climate policy, integration into international carbon mechanisms, improvement of the regulatory framework and post-war recovery were identified. The feasibility of improving the existing methodology for assessing losses caused to forestry as a result of Russian aggression was substantiated by taking into account ecosystem, climatic, adaptation and projected losses. The conclusions emphasize the need to improve management mechanisms and the regulatory framework, as well as to increase the level of qualification of human resources to ensure sustainable forest management in the context of climate change. The proposed improvement of the methodology for assessing losses can serve as a theoretical and methodological basis for further development of climate change adaptation policy in the context of post-war recovery of forestry management in the affected territories.