Social impact of destruction of urban forests in Ukraine and considerations for their future reconstruction

Abstract

Urban trees and greenspaces are often damaged in military conflicts. This study examines the current extent of damage caused by war to urban trees and greenspaces in Ukraine, focusing on the consequences to the well-being of residents, and providing considerations for urban forest reconstruction. Urban trees produce a variety of benefits, including habitat for wildlife, reduction of energy use, improvement in physical and mental health of citizens, and an increased sense of community. Past research has shown the association of city trees with (a) lower incidence of under-weight newborns, (b) lower rates of death from cardiovascular disease, (c) reduced deaths during excessive heat events, and (d) improved psychological health. We estimate war-caused changes to urban green space in Ukraine using satellite-based indicators. Within seven cities in eastern Ukraine nearly destroyed by spring 2022, at least 13% of areas predominantly vegetated in 2021 had declined in greenness by 20% or more by the summers of 2022 and 2023. Finally, we briefly summarize five factors that should be considered when reconstruction of war-damaged urban forests and greenspaces is attempted. These include (1) the residents’ desire to have their original environment restored; (2) the unavailability of nursery stock for replanting immediately after the war; (3) the impacts of bombing on soil; (4) the importance of engaging local residents in replanting efforts; and (5) the psychological value of saving some damaged trees as survivors of the war.