Ministry of Economy and Environment: Ukrainian and European scientists work on modern solutions for water monitoring and ecosystem restoration

Digital technologies, satellite observations and artificial intelligence help assess the state of water resources more accurately, detect pollution and plan ecosystem restoration. Representatives of Ukrainian universities and scientists from the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC) discussed opportunities for cooperation in these areas in Ukraine during a working meeting in Ispra, Italy.

The meeting was attended by representatives of the National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine, Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute and West Ukrainian National University. They presented priority areas of cooperation, including the Ministry of Economy and Environment's initiatives to modernize Ukraine's water resources monitoring system. The discussion covered the use of artificial intelligence and digital tools for collecting and analyzing data, as well as satellite observations.

Participants also discussed preparing joint projects for European Commission programs. Possible areas include comprehensive environmental monitoring, cleanup of polluted areas and restoration of aquatic ecosystems.

Ukrainian scientists and JRC specialists also considered how computer models can be used to assess the consequences of hydropower plant destruction. Using the Kakhovka HPP as an example, they looked at how modeling helps identify possible flood zones and assess environmental risks. Such tools can help communities better prepare for emergencies.

The meeting outlined opportunities for further cooperation between Ukrainian universities and European scientific institutions in preparing and carrying out joint projects.

"Water resources management requires reliable data on water quantity and quality and on changes in aquatic ecosystems. The war complicates research, so satellite observations and digital technologies are especially important. Cooperation between Ukrainian universities and European Commission scientists will help develop solutions for water monitoring and planning the restoration of polluted areas," said Deputy Minister of Economy and Environment Iryna Ovcharenko.