How Ukraine Is Reforming Waste Management in Line with European Principles

Waste is not just a growing problem piling up in landfills — it’s a critical challenge that affects the environment, public health, the economy, and overall quality of life. For decades, Ukraine has attempted to reform its waste management system, but only in recent years have real changes taken shape — with the adoption of new strategic documents, legislative reforms, and the launch of modern digital services.

Key Documents — Finally in Effect

In 2023, Ukraine enacted the long-awaited Law on Waste Management, marking a new era in environmental policy. This law not only aligns Ukrainian legislation with European standards but also introduces tangible changes that impact every region:

• a new permitting system;

• decentralization of waste management;

• development of national and regional waste management plans;

• creation and modernization of infrastructure;

• implementation of European principles such as the waste hierarchy, extended producer responsibility (EPR), and the “polluter pays” principle.

From Strategies to Real Change in the Regions

To translate strategy into action, the Ministry of Environmental Protection has developed guidelines for preparing Regional Waste Management Plans (RWMPs). These plans are far from symbolic — they define where and how new infrastructure will be developed, which landfills must be reclaimed, and how many waste processing plants need to be built.

As of now, 15 regions have drafted their RWMPs, and the work continues. By 2030, the plan is to construct approximately 200 waste processing facilities across Ukraine.

“EcoSystem”: Digital Transformation in Action

Waste management in Ukraine is becoming more transparent with the introduction of the national digital platform “EcoSystem.” It simplifies permitting processes, facility registration, and reporting — and enables control over cross-border waste transport. This is a major step toward digitalization and bringing the sector out of the shadows.

Producer Responsibility: A New Culture of Waste Handling

Ukraine is preparing to implement an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) system — a model successfully used in the EU. Under EPR, producers are responsible not only for making products but also for the recycling and disposal of packaging, electronics, batteries, and more. Draft laws on packaging, electronic waste, and batteries have already been developed — and EU experts have confirmed their compliance with EU directives.

Benefits for Communities and Businesses

This reform is not only about ecology — it's also about economic opportunity. RWMP implementation opens new avenues for SMEs, recyclers, and investors, while providing local communities with tools for oversight and sustainable development. Cabinet Resolution No. 695 regulates how local councils supervise the execution of investment programs in the waste sector.

A Standardized Approach to Analysis and Planning

Every RWMP follows a clear structure that includes:

• regional characteristics (geography, demographics, economy, affected communities);

• current status of waste management systems;

• system development plans (goals, scenarios, funding);

• performance monitoring.

These plans consider all types of waste — household, industrial, construction, medical, hazardous, and others — and propose collaborative solutions based on shared infrastructure.

Ukraine on the Path to a Green Transition

Building a new waste management system is a long-term process. It requires time, investment, and sustainable partnerships between the state, businesses, and citizens. What matters most, however, is that the reform is already underway — and it incorporates the best practices from Europe.

There is still a long road ahead, but the steps being taken today lay the groundwork for a sustainable future, a cleaner environment, and a stronger economy.