Today, the EBA and the State Environmental Inspectorate signed a memorandum of cooperation that will strengthen efforts in implementing the state policy on supervision in the field of environmental protection, rational use, reproduction and protection of natural resources, promoting Ukraine’s European integration, in particular the implementation of the principles of the EU Water Framework Directive 2000/60/EC and the EU Strategy for the Danube Region, and implementing joint projects.
Ukraine is currently undergoing a decentralisation process, with administrative units changing, local governments gaining greater rights and responsibilities, and being given more and more powers, including in the area of environmental protection. In recent years, the Danube Region has become increasingly concerned about violations of environmental legislation, with most violations related to the unsustainable use of land and water resources, waste management and polluted wastewater discharge.
Only a well-established dialogue and joint work of the authorised state authorities and local self-government bodies in implementing the state policy on environmental supervision can bring certain results.
Within the framework of the Memorandum of Cooperation, the Association acts as an authorised representative of local governments on interaction and cooperation in the above issues. The parties to the memorandum will be able to work together to stop violations of environmental legislation, raise awareness and environmental awareness of the newly formed communities.
Cooperation within the framework of the Memorandum will have a positive impact on improving the efficiency of the State Environmental Inspectorate and local governments of the Danube Region in terms of environmental safety, responding to violations of environmental legislation and preserving the environment.