"Ecology is traditionally one of the priorities of the state policy of Belarus," the speaker emphasized. “Our president has clearly defined the conceptual approaches of the Belarusian state to the natural heritage: nature is an absolute priority. This is the priority of priorities. If there is nature, there is life. If there is no nature, there is no life," Natalya Kochanova said.
“Our country is a party to most universal and regional environmental agreements, and is actively cooperating to develop the international legal system in this area. At the national level, we have put together an appropriate legislative framework, adopted the strategies in the field of environmental protection, developed the geological industry and intensified the rational development of the mineral resource base. The well-defined and consistent steps taken by the state in the field of ecology and nature management make it possible to preserve a significant part of natural habitats in their pristine form and successfully ensure the environmental well-being of the developed territories."
"In his respect, Belarus compares favorably within, at least, the Eurasian ecological system. We can rightly be proud of the achievements in water treatment, renewable energy and electric transport, the use of low-carbon and energy-efficient technologies in the economy. A system of afforestation and reforestation has been built. Imbalances in carrying out reclamation measures are being eliminated. On a scientific basis, lowland complexes - the lungs of Europe - are preserved and restored. We have gained serious experience in restoring territories affected by radioactive contamination as a result of the accident at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant. Today, they are actively used to promote environmental education and science, green energy and other socially useful goals," Natalia Kochanova said.
Belarus has come a long way in the development of the peaceful atom, the speaker added. "The Belarusian nuclear power plant is not just a source of cheaper and resource-saving electricity. It is an eco-friendly choice focused on curbing climate change and solving pollution problems. Our ill-wishers criticized us heavily for this! But today many of them are planning to implement such projects," Natalia Kochanova noted.
