STRATEGIC PRIORITIES FOR THE TRANSFORMATION OF PUBLIC REGULATION OF THE WASTEWATER SECTOR IN UKRAINE IN THE CONTEXT OF EUROPEAN INTEGRATION

DOI: 10.31673/2786-7412.2026.017207

Abstract

The article substantiates the formation of a new paradigm of public
regulation of the wastewater sector in Ukraine under conditions of post-crisis recovery,
European integration transformations, and increasing environmental challenges. It is
proven that the current governance model, primarily focused on maintaining the
functioning of deteriorated infrastructure, fails to ensure long-term environmental safety,
economic efficiency, and investment attractiveness of the sector. A conceptual transition
is proposed from a “maintenance-oriented” model to a model of sustainable, innovative,
and environmentally oriented development of wastewater systems, based on the
principles of integrated water resources management, resource efficiency, and digital
transformation.
The study identifies five key strategic priorities for modernizing public
regulation in the sector: harmonization of national legislation with European
environmental directives; introduction of incentive-based tariff regulation aimed at
infrastructure renewal and investment attraction; achievement of technological energy
neutrality of wastewater treatment facilities through the implementation of energyefficient and circular solutions; establishment of systemic regulation of decentralized
wastewater management as a component of territorial environmental safety; and
digitalization of monitoring and management processes through modern information and
analytical platforms.
It is substantiated that the implementation of the proposed approaches will
enhance transparency of managerial decision-making, reduce environmental risks,
optimize operational costs, and ensure long-term financial sustainability of water supply
and sanitation enterprises. The proposed public regulation model integrates economic,
environmental, and social governance instruments and aligns with contemporary
sustainable development standards and European Union practices.

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