The Ukrainian Association of Environmental Professionals joins Think2030

The Professional Association of Environmentalists of the World (PAEW) is an association of environmentalists, designers, ESG managers, lawyers, environmental engineers, the only professional union of environmentalists in Ukraine, which brings together more than 7,000 specialists for professional growth, exchange of experience, implementation of environmental reforms and green reconstruction. 

Our areas of activity and expertise include:  

  • adaptation to climate change 
  • decarbonization and a green transition  
  • energy efficiency and RES 
  • industrial eco-modernization 
  • agroecology and soil restoration 
  • environmental monitoring 
  • rational water use and water conservation 
  • environmental finance reform 
  • ESG and sustainable development 
  • protection of atmospheric air 
  • waste management 
  • and other spheres related to environmental protection.  

PAEW brings together cross-sectoral experts, representatives of businesses, communities, and state and local authorities for dialogue and search for joint solutions to problems. We have long recognised the importance of joining forces, working across disciplines, and applying an integrated approach to achieve common sustainability goals. For this reason, we create platforms for communication, research, development of solutions, and establishment of projects. 

We have set up a training centre to help improve the skills of specialists, train them, facilitate the exchange of experience, and open up opportunities for global interaction even in the most difficult times for Ukraine. The Association also conducts many awareness-raising and educational programmes for communities, students and children. We issue a monthly magazine for professional leaders of sustainable development and collaborate with scientists and educational institutions to improve training programmes for green change agents. 

  • Why did PAEW decide to join the Think2030 platform? 

PAEW decided to join the Think2030 platform because of our common commitment to promoting sustainable development and environmental policy in Europe, especially in the context of the challenges faced by Ukraine due to the war in our country. The war has caused significant damage to our environment and infrastructure, and we believe that cooperation within Think2030 will help not only restore but also upgrade our environmental standards to European levels. Think2030 offers a platform for sharing experiences and solutions that can be critical for our country in this difficult time. 

  • What do you think can be PAEW’s biggest contribution to the Think2030 platform and its activities?  

PAEW’s major contribution to the Think2030 platform lies in our unique experience of working in war and emergencies. We can provide valuable insights into adapting environmental initiatives to crisis conditions and restoring ecosystems after destruction. In addition, our experience in community engagement and cooperation with local authorities will allow Think2030 to expand the impact of its programmes to the regions that have suffered the greatest damage. 

  • Why is it important that the Green Deal continues beyond 2024 and what should be its main priorities after the most recent EU elections? 

The continuation of the Green Deal beyond 2024 is crucial because the environmental and climate challenges we face require long-term, sustained efforts, especially given the challenges posed by the war in Ukraine and its impact on Europe’s environmental security. The Green Deal has set ambitious targets that cannot be achieved overnight, so extending its framework will ensure that the momentum for a greener Europe is maintained. Additionally, the war in Ukraine has shown the vulnerability of ecosystems to destruction, emphasizing the need for sustained, long-term efforts to protect them.  

Following the recent EU elections, the main priorities should include accelerating the transition to renewable energy, enhancing ecosystems and biodiversity protection, and integrating social justice principles into all environmental policies to ensure a just and inclusive green transition for all, including affected countries such as Ukraine. 

  • What are you most excited about working together with T2030 on? 

We are most excited about the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse network of experts and organizations within Think2030 to co-create innovative solutions that can have a real impact on Europe’s sustainability agenda, as well as to identify solutions for Ukraine’s post-war recovery and development. Working together on projects that bridge policy and practice, especially in the areas of renewable energy, circular economy, and water management is something we are particularly looking forward to. We also hope that our experience and expertise will help Think2030 to implement programmes that have a real impact on ecosystem restoration and resilience both in Ukraine and across Europe.

As an open discussion platform, we are always happy to welcome new partners and organisations working towards a more sustainable Europe.

To learn more about Think2030 membership, please contact us

Photo by Polina Rytova on Unsplash

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