Yevsiukov T. Ecological and Economic Principles of Use and Protection of Especially Valuable Lands in Ukraine

The thesis presents systematic research on solving scientific problems associated with the development of ecological and economic principles and practical recommendations for the use and protection of especially valuable lands (EVL) in the completion of the transformation of land relations. The theoretical nature of the category "value of land resources", reasonable approaches to determining the value of land resources as a basic component of the ecosphere and human living space are described. The effect of the economic development of land resources as their subjective value is studied, the limited land resources as a factor increasing their value in the future of increasing world population is considered. Rational use and conservation of EVL should be based on scientific research related to their subsequent learning, development database on EVL (at the global, national, regional, local, local-point levels). It should also contain the creation of geo-mapping models that reflect their distribution and properties determination of their environmental and economic assessment etc. The most important feature of EVL is their high material and immaterial value comparing with other lands. The material due to their high economic assessment, as intangible value, is associated with such characteristics as uniqueness, socio-economic and environmental significance, powerful spiritual potential, scientific and natural value etc. In general, these signs EVL outline the strategic potential for the development of the state and of the society. The basis for further study of EVL at national and global levels is their study at the regional level and, first of all, forming inventory database of EVL. It will be the basis for further planning of their management, effective public policy for rational use of EVL and improving the ecological status of land resources in the region. Therefore, further study and protection of EVL, ensuring effective management must search for ways and mechanisms for combining the principles of land management (based on administrative-territorial division) and the principles of separation of EVL (based on natural and agricultural zoning). Scientific approaches to classification of EVL were improved. Scientific and methodological basis of environmental and economic assessment of EVL in the land resources was described. Institutional prerequisites for the protection of EVL were considered. The current state of EVL and their distribution in the structure of the land fund of Ukraine were viewed. The regional geo-environmental problems concerning using of EVL were shown. The issue of classification of ecological and economic risks in the use of valuable land was considered. Ecological importance of EVL for conservation of biological diversity and the environment, socio-economic importance of land protection of objects of cultural and historical heritage was highlighted and role of their health in the context of sustainable land use was defined. The system of measures to ensure the use of ecologically valuable land was proposed. Conceptual bases of formation of the State Register of EVL were proposed and also economic, environmental and institutional mechanisms for their protection.