Our city grapples with several pressing issues that hinder both its sustainability and the well-being of its residents:
1. One of our primary challenges lies in our energy infrastructure. Due to constant attacks on the energy system of Ukraine, there are blackouts in every city. Therefore, Chernivtsi struggles with an unreliable energy supply and a significant reliance on non-renewable sources. This not only poses environmental risks but also threatens the long-term sustainability of our city.
2. Community integration and spaces. Chernivtsi faces a critical need for ecologically friendly public spaces that foster community integration and social cohesion. With a growing population of internally displaced persons (IDPs) reaching 40,000 in the city (100,000 in the Chernivtsi region), there’s an urgent demand for spaces that promote interaction, communication, and cultural exchange. Lack of such spaces not only impedes social integration but also exacerbates feelings of isolation and alienation among residents. By creating comfortable and environmentally sustainable spaces for public interaction, we aim to address both the social and environmental dimensions of urban development.
3. Psycho-emotional well-being and civic engagement. Another pressing challenge in Chernivtsi relates to the psycho-emotional well-being of our residents and the need for spaces that inspire creativity, cooperation, and civic activity. War, uncertainty, a fast-paced urban lifestyle, combined with IDP’s (internally displaced persons) integration problems, contributed to increased levels of stress and mental health problems. Creating spaces that promote mental well-being, encourage creativity, and facilitate civic engagement is essential for fostering a vibrant and resilient community.
