Ukraine intensifies work with the UN within the framework of the Black Sea restoration project

Ukraine is strengthening cooperation with partners to reduce pollution of the Black Sea and prepare investments in the field of water policy.

This was reported by the Ministry of Economy, Environment and Agriculture of Ukraine.

These issues became key during the meeting of Deputy Minister of Economy Iryna Ovcharenko with representatives of the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) on the implementation of the GEF international technical assistance project “Blueing the Black Sea (BBSEA)” in Ukraine.

The parties discussed in detail the definition of national priorities within the framework of the BBSEA, the technical terms of reference of the project and the organization of further interagency interaction for its effective implementation.

The “Black Sea Revitalization” project, which officially launched in June 2025, is a regional initiative of the Global Environment Facility with a budget of 6.39 million US dollars. It is implemented by the World Bank with the participation of UNOPS and is aimed at increasing the readiness of the countries of the Black Sea region to systematically reduce marine pollution.

During 2024-2028, BBSEA envisages stimulating eco-innovations through international competitions, supporting the participating countries — Georgia, Moldova, Turkey and Ukraine — in improving the regulatory framework and investment planning. It is also planned to conduct analytical studies to prepare future investment projects.

The expected result of the initiative will be the implementation of modern eco-innovation solutions, strengthening the legal and institutional framework in the participating countries, and forming national investment plans to reduce pollution of the Black Sea.

“For Ukraine, participation in BBSEA opens up opportunities for preparing high-quality projects for the restoration of water resources and marine ecosystems, attracting international funding, and strengthening interdepartmental coordination in the field of water protection. This is a practical tool for the transition from assessing environmental challenges to forming specific investment decisions. The implementation of the project will strengthen the state’s institutional capacity in the field of water resources management and will contribute to the restoration of the Black Sea ecosystems,” noted Iryna Ovcharenko.

Following the meeting, the parties agreed to further coordinate the work and work out the next steps for the full launch of the project in Ukraine.

Reference. UNOPS (United Nations Office for Project Services) is an operating agency of the UN system that provides project management, procurement and infrastructure services to governments and international partners. The organization supports the implementation of projects in the areas of sustainable development, recovery, climate and environmental policy in more than 80 countries around the world.

Earlier, USM reported that a new case of pollution of the Black Sea coast with fuel oil was recorded in the Odesa region.