Improving the Management of Ukraine's Irrigation and Drainage Infrastructure While Applying ESG Requirements

Abstract

The main problems of managing irrigation and drainage infrastructure facilities in Ukraine are considered in connection with the practice of applying ESG methods for environmental, social and management components in relation to the provision of irrigation and drainage services. In the context of harmonizing the financial reporting of Ukrainian enterprises with the reporting requirements of the EU countries, a regulatory framework is being prepared for the implementation of sustainable development reporting as part of public reporting of enterprises. According to the requirements of ESG-reporting, information disclosure is provided for the following items: presentation of consequences of the use of natural resources in the format of ESG-reporting, which discloses information about the activities of companies in the field of Environmental aspects, Social responsibility and corporate Governance. Including irrigation and drainage engineering infrastructure in the scope of activities and reporting will contribute to a significant improvement in the condition and return on such assets of water users. The article substantiates the need to provide water users of Ukraine with information on the management of infrastructure facilities in ESG-reporting. The introduction of ESG management elements into the practice of operators and water users will contribute to the restoration of engineering infrastructure facilities and the increase in the area of irrigated land, drainage systems, achieving and maintaining good condition of river basin areas, protecting territories and settlements from the harmful effects of water. The paper highlights the problems of managing irrigation and drainage infrastructure facilities in Ukraine, reflects the practice of applying ESG methods. UDC: 005.35:631.67(477); JEL: Q25, Q56, Q58