Sustainable development is about seeking balance between nature and humanity. It’s a way of life that allows us to meet today’s needs without compromising the future. The very first official step in this direction was taken back in 1969, when the U.S. National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) declared that people and nature must coexist in productive harmony.
Thus, every fourth Wednesday of October marks Sustainable Development Day – a global reminder of our shared responsibility to the planet, society, and the generations to come. First celebrated as a student initiative in 2014, this day quickly evolved into a worldwide movement uniting millions of people who strive for positive change.
UN sustainable development goals
In 2015, the United Nations adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which includes 17 global goals addressing poverty, education, climate, health, equality, peace, and innovation. Ukraine has also joined this ambitious international plan.
All these goals are interconnected: cutting CO₂ emissions improves public health, while fostering inclusion enhances safety and economic growth.
Bukovel, Ukraine's model of real sustainability
Our resort showcases how sustainability principles can be put into action – integrating tourism, environmental care, and social responsibility into one living system.
Environmental initiatives of the resort
1. Air protection
- Installation of AirVisual Outdoor air-quality monitors;
- Real-time monitoring of PM2.5, temperature, and humidity levels.
2. Water resource protection
- Regular analysis of drinking water quality;
- Continuous control of wastewater;
- Special water-use permits issued under strict environmental compliance.
3. Waste management
- Sorting of glass, plastic, and paper in partnership with Alfa Recycling IF;
- Ongoing monitoring and public reporting;
- Collaboration with Eco-Prykarpattia for collection and transport.
4. Energy efficiency
- LED lighting systems saving 139,700 kWh over three years;
- Installation of 0.6 MW solar panels.
5. Public transport
- Free Bukovel Bus shuttles connecting key resort locations;
- 8 electric vehicle charging stations for eco-friendly transport.
Programs by the Bukovel Sustainable Development Office
Green Bukovel
- Collection of hazardous waste, including batteries (in partnership with NGO Batteries, Surrender!);
- Educational campaigns on environmental awareness and eco-practices.
Sustainable course
- -5 UAH discounts for guests bringing reusable cups;
- Cooperation with hotels and restaurants to introduce sustainable operations;
- Signing of a Sustainability Memorandum with the Ivano-Frankivsk Regional Development Agency.
Teaching children about sustainability
- Eco-lessons for schoolchildren in Polyanytsia and nearby communities;
- Collaboration with local children’s camps to promote environmental awareness.
Bukovel educates
- Presentations of best practices for tourism professionals;
- Environmental responsibility training for restaurant staff;
- Hosting sustainability events such as “Tobacco OFF” and “Green Future”;
- Screening of the environmental documentary In the Name of the Tysa on river plastic pollution.
Bukovel sorts
- Pilot recycling program for plastic, glass, and paper;
- Informational materials for both guests and resort employees.
Veteran support
- Participation in job fairs to help veterans find employment;
- Sponsorship of the Strong Spirit’s Games in cooperation with the Ukrainian Strongman Federation;
- Funding for inclusive outdoor workout areas across Ukraine.
Preparation for green destinations certification
Bukovel is currently preparing for Green Destinations certification – an international standard that evaluates:
- environmental management,
- community engagement,
- cultural heritage preservation,
- business transparency and ethics.
Other programs of the sustainable development office
- Strong Team – implementation of modern HR and employee well-being practices;
- Clean Energy – installation of solar panels on hotel and parking roofs;
- Inclusive Bukovel – creation of barrier-free infrastructure throughout the resort.
Informational and educational activities
On Bukovel’s official website, the Sustainability section regularly features publications aimed at raising environmental awareness and celebrating the Carpathian region’s natural richness.
Among them:
- articles highlighting the unique flora and fauna of Bukovel, showcasing the biodiversity of the Carpathians;
- features on key dates from the global environmental calendar (e.g. Earth Overshoot Day), emphasizing Bukovel’s commitment to worldwide ecological initiatives.
“For Bukovel, sustainability is not a trend – it’s a necessity. The best time to act is now. Only together can we create a world where nature and people thrive in harmony.” – Bohdan Krasavtsev, Head of the Bukovel Sustainable Development Office.
In October 2025, the Sustainable Development Office recognized the most proactive hotels at Bukovel for their commitment to eco-friendly reforms and sustainable progress.