The Peculiarities of Contemporary Legal Policy of Ukraine in the Field of Combating Climate Change

Abstract

Introduction. The article is devoted to the study of the peculiarities of formation and development of Ukraineʼs legal policy in the fi eld of combating climate change. The main normative legal acts, elaborated and adopted in fulfi llment of international commitments on сounteracting climate change, are analyzed. The author draws attention to the existing shortcomings of the legal regulation of climate change protection in our country. The aim of the article. The purpose of this scientifi c research is to determine contemporary trends of the formation, implementation and development of Ukraineʼs legal policy in the fi eld of combating climate change on the basis of the analysis of national legislation and relevant international legal acts in which our country participates. Results. Despite the fact that Ukraine is trying to pursue a balanced legal policy in the fi eld of combating climate change, taking into account the practice of European countries, it is not perfect and still needs reform. To date, there is no law on defi ning the legal regime of climate protection in Ukraine. In addition, in the adopted normative legal acts the climate is not considered as an object of legal protection. Conclusions. Based on the analysis of national legislation, we can conclude that Ukraineʼs legal policy in the fi eld of combating climate change needs changes. First of all, these changes are related to the need to take an integrated approach to tackling climate change. Ukraineʼs climate policy should not be fragmented. That is why it is so important to elaborate and adopt a separate law that would defi ne the legal regime of climate protection and resolve all disputes, taking into account international and European standards. Key words: greenhouse gas emissions, harmonization of legislation, climate change, implementation of international treaties, legal policy, nationally determined contribution, sustainable development