EU standards: Ukraine and Estonia discuss joint steps in environmental protection

Ukraine and Estonia are deepening cooperation in the areas of waste management, industrial pollution, water resources and climate. This was discussed during a meeting between the Minister of Economy, Environment and Agriculture of Ukraine, Oleksii Sobolev, and the Estonian Minister of Energy and the Environment, Andres Sutt. Deputy Ministers of Economy, Environment and Agriculture of Ukraine Ihor Zubovych and Oleksandr Krasnolutskyi also took part in the meeting.

“Practical cooperation with Estonia is very important to us – particularly in waste management, water policy, prevention of industrial pollution and climate issues. It is through such partnerships that we can implement European rules and solutions in Ukraine more quickly. It also helps us to more effectively fulfil our European integration commitments and respond to the challenges facing businesses,” noted Oleksii Sobolev.

The parties discussed key areas of cooperation and practical steps:

Waste Management. Ukraine already has basic legislation in place but requires support in preparing sectoral acts, in particular regarding the management of battery waste.

Water Policy. Discussions focused on the implementation of EU directives, the development of a river basin management approach and water quality monitoring systems. The parties agreed to work on a joint action plan.

Industrial Pollution. Ukraine is interested in implementing Best Available Techniques (BAT) and in receiving support to meet European integration benchmarks, particularly in the areas of air quality and industrial emissions, as well as in the introduction of the Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS). The participants agreed to strengthen cooperation in this area, including the implementation of integrated environmental permits. Ukraine is also keen to learn from Estonia’s experience, where such permits are combined into a single digital system, which significantly simplifies procedures for businesses.

Climate and European Integration. The parties also discussed preparations for participation in COP31, where Ukraine plans to present its own solutions in the field of climate and “green” recovery. The Estonian side confirmed its readiness to participate in events at the Ukrainian pavilion.

Particular attention was paid to preparations for the Ukraine Recovery Conference 2027, which will be held in Estonia, and opportunities to strengthen the environmental component of Ukraine’s recovery.

Following the meeting, the parties agreed to continue expert-level cooperation and expand partnership in priority areas of environment and climate. Among the practical steps is the organisation of a study visit by a Ukrainian delegation to Estonia in 2026 to exchange experience in the field of environmental permits and digital solutions, as well as the development of cooperation in the area of biodiversity.