Impact of the Russia–Ukraine armed conflict on water resources and water infrastructure

Oleksandra Shumilova (), Klement Tockner, Alexander Sukhodolov, Valentyn Khilchevskyi, Luc Meester, Sergiy Stepanenko, Ganna Trokhymenko, Juan Antonio Hernández-Agüero and Peter Gleick
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Oleksandra Shumilova: Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries
Klement Tockner: Senckenberg Society for Nature Research
Alexander Sukhodolov: Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries
Valentyn Khilchevskyi: Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv
Luc Meester: Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries
Sergiy Stepanenko: Odessa State Environmental University, Hydrometeorological Institute
Ganna Trokhymenko: Admiral Makarov National University of Shipbuilding
Juan Antonio Hernández-Agüero: Senckenberg Society for Nature Research
Peter Gleick: Pacific Institute for Studies in Development, Environment, and Security

Nature Sustainability, 2023, vol. 6, issue 5, 578-586

Abstract: Abstract The armed conflict between Ukraine and Russia that began in late February 2022 has far-reaching environmental consequences, especially regarding water resources and management. Here we analysed the multifaceted impacts of the military actions on freshwater resources and water infrastructure during the first three months of the conflict. We identified the nature of the impacts, the kind of pressures imposed on the water sector and the negative consequences for the availability and quality of freshwater resources for the civilian population. Our results showed that many water infrastructures such as dams at reservoirs, water supply and treatment systems and subsurface mines have been impacted or are at risk from military actions. Continuation of the conflict will have multiple negative sustainability implications not only in Ukraine but also on a global scale, hampering achievement of clean water and sanitation, conservation and sustainable use of water resources, and energy and food security.

Date: 2023
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DOI: 10.1038/s41893-023-01068-x

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