For the First Time, an International Conference Provides a Platform for Civil Society to Discuss Sustainable Reconstruction – Ecoclub Rivne is an environmental NGO

For the First Time, an International Conference Provides a Platform for Civil Society to Discuss Sustainable Reconstruction

For the First Time, an International Conference Provides a Platform for Civil Society to Discuss Sustainable Reconstruction

On November 13-14, Ecoclub participated in the international ReBuild Ukraine 2024 conference held in Warsaw. At the event, we presented nine investment projects for the installation of solar power plants (SPPs) for hospitals and water supply systems in communities. These projects will provide more than 400,000 Ukrainians with more stable access to essential services like healthcare and water supply.

A representative of the Ecoclub shared this during the panel discussion “Green Reconstruction of Ukrainian Communities: Key Lessons from 2023-2024 Recovery Projects,” held as part of the conference. This marked the first international conference where the civil sector was provided a platform to present its vision for sustainable community recovery. Learn more about the projects: ecoclubrivne.org/en/invest_projects.

The projects include the installation of solar power plants for:

Hospitals in Morshyn (Ivano-Frankivsk region) and Sumy

Water utilities in Korosten (Zhytomyr region), Novovolynsk (Volyn region), and Sumy

Water pumping stations in Nova Odesa (Mykolaiv region) and Sumy

Water intakes in Sumy

“Investments in renewable energy for communities are both vital and economically viable today. Well-designed projects significantly reduce energy costs and ensure more stable power supply. This is not only a critical contribution to rebuilding but also a demonstration of corporate social responsibility and environmental care. To support such initiatives, international donors, development banks, and funds offer favorable financing terms or grant support, making these projects more accessible,” emphasizes Nataliia Lytvyn, Ecoclub project coordinator and Energy Transition Coalition coordinator.

At the conference, Ecoclub also presented its position on sustainable community development. We advocate for reconstruction that includes direct project funding, mandatory training for local staff, investment in renewable energy, and climate adaptation. Read more about our positions at ecoclubrivne.org/en/category/publications/.

Since early 2022, Ecoclub has worked with communities to install more than 40 solar power plants for hospitals and water utilities. This experience has underscored the importance of alternative energy sources in critical situations. For example, during a blackout in Sumy, a solar power plant ensured the autonomous operation of the water utility for six hours.

The ReBuild Ukraine conference serves as an international platform, bringing together community representatives, businesses, governments, and donor organizations to collectively find solutions for Ukraine’s recovery.