The second experimental PEC in Ukraine was opened in the Sofiyivka Arboretum in Uman. The team of ecologists received mobile laboratories, and their assistants—veterans and students—received their public inspector certificates.
This was reported by the Ministry of Economy, Environment, and Agriculture.
Preventive approach as the new norm
The Ministry considers the development of the PEC network to be part of a new environmental control system.
“We have high hopes for this project, as it introduces a completely new approach—not to punish, but to prevent damage,” said Deputy Minister of Economy Ihor Zubovych.
The PEC model is designed to prevent environmental crimes. Environmental inspectors will patrol the territory and respond promptly to calls 24/7.
Technology also plays an important role—modern equipment will allow violations and damage to be recorded on site, and data processing will be digitized. The equipment for the PEC, including a mobile laboratory, computers, and a copter, was purchased with the support of the Swedish government as part of a UNDP project to assess environmental damage.
The first experimental PEC was opened in the Zhytomyr region, as reported by EcoPolitics. The project will run for six months. Its results will form the basis for the preparation of a new draft law that will completely reform the environmental control system in Ukraine.