The Impact of the Russian Invasion of Ukraine on Protected Natural Areas: A Quantitative Approach and the Opportunities and Challenges of Nature Restoration

The large-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia as of February 24, 2022, has also been a catastrophe for its natural heritage and the country’s biodiversity. Many protected natural areas have been turned into real brownfields. By April 2024, it has been estimated that 37.7% of the country’s protected areas have been directly affected by the fighting in the northeast and east of the country and along the Dnieper River up to its delta. The future reconstruction of the country must take this reality into account to expand the extent of protected areas in Ukraine, considering international commitments (Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework) and the new European legislative framework (Nature Restoration Law). Decisions that must integrate climate change scenarios to ensure a recovery of natural heritage and biodiversity that will guarantee resilient landscapes in the face of climate change and promote the well-being of the population.