The task of reconstruction is not only to repair or replace what has been destroyed. It is also to create sustainable, energy-efficient and risk-resistant water management systems.
Today, only 32% of wastewater is treated in Ukraine, with the rest ending up in the soil. At the same time, the average treatment rate in Europe is 80%. Water losses on the way to the consumer amount to 40%. These are catastrophic figures, which in the near future could lead to a water crisis, especially in the south of the country.
Therefore, our strategic goal is to provide Ukrainians with free access to drinking water for decades to come.
“Our path is to find comprehensive solutions: energy-efficient re-equipment of water channels, use of renewable energy, construction of modern water and sewage treatment facilities and network upgrades. The Agency for Restoration’s Center of Expertise in the Water Sector conducts comprehensive assessments of water projects. In particular, the installation of modular sewage treatment plants in small and medium-sized communities: a systematic and transparent approach. Also, the installation of solar power stations at water supply facilities. We are waiting for changes in Resolution No. 362 of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine in order to implement this project quickly, transparently, and without unnecessary bureaucratic procedures through the Centralized Procurement Organization in cooperation with Ukreximbank,” emphasized Serhii Sukhomlyn.
Forum participants also discussed:
🔸the integration of European environmental standards into restoration
🔸internal and external financing mechanisms to support modernization
🔸donor assistance for the development of the water sector in wartime
The Lviv Ecoforum is the main annual event for the water supply and sanitation sector. This year, it brought together more than 300 water utility managers, government officials, international partners and experts around the theme: “Building a water future together. Uniting the sector for change.”
The event was organized by the Ukrvodokanalekologiya Association, with the support of UNICEF Ukraine.