The “Opportunities for Sustainable Agricultural Practices in Paludiculture in Ukraine” Farmers’ Guide was developed within the framework of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) project “Promoting Sustainable Livestock Management and Ecosystem Conservation in Northern Ukraine.” The project is being implemented with financial support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF).

The guide was prepared with technical and expert support from the “Cooperative Academy” service cooperative.

The publication brings together relevant international and Ukrainian experience in sustainable, nature-friendly farming on wetlands and restored peatlands. The guide presents peatland restoration not only as an effective tool for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and conserving biodiversity, but also as part of Ukraine’s fulfilment of its European commitments in the areas of environmental and climate policy. The restoration of Ukraine’s peatlands and the sustainable use of their natural potential open up new opportunities for the development of small-scale farming.

The guide consists of seven chapters, each focusing on specific paludiculture practices that Ukrainian farmers can implement on restored peatlands. These include keeping buffaloes, certain breeds of cattle, sheep, and waterfowl on wetland areas. Separate chapters focus on the gathering of berries and medicinal plants, the cultivation of berries, as well as beekeeping (including bortnytstvo, a traditional Ukrainian form of beekeeping that has been practiced for centuries).

The experience and practical recommendations compiled in the guide will be of use to farmers, communities, and public authorities, and will contribute to the implementation of solutions that ensure both human well-being and nature conservation.