УКР
we're saving unique individuals
Uniting the forces of science and art, to preserve ukrainian biodiversity for future generations,
For example,
Centaurea margaritacea of Mykolaiv region
of the Ukrainian Emerald Network are at risk of destruction due to the war. Pristine untouched steppes, chalky slopes in Donetsk, coastal habitats in southern regions, and marshes in the north are now in active combat zones, threatening the existence of thousands of plant and animal species.
2,9 mLN ha
At the initiative of EU countries and their partners, the “Emerald Network” has been established - conservation areas encompassing important or rare ecosystems outside the European Union (similar to the Natura 2000 network). The primary goal of this network is to conserve biological diversity and support ecosystems crucial for essential ecological processes.
At the initiative of EU countries and their partners, the “Emerald Network” has been established - conservation areas encompassing important or rare ecosystems outside the European Union (similar to the Natura 2000 network). The primary goal of this network is to conserve biological diversity and support ecosystems crucial for essential ecological processes.
Ecologists from Mykolaiv note that these cornflowers have already become one of the unofficial botanical symbols of the city, because they are associated specifically with this region. Currently, the biological activity of Centaurea margaritacea from the Mykolaiv region has not yet been thoroughly studied. However, various representatives of the centaurea species are known for their medicinal properties, such as anti-diabetic, anti-malarial, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-diarrheal, anti-rheumatic, cholagogic, antipyretic, anti-allergic, antiviral, and many other properties beneficial for medicine.
Our project embodies goal #15 Life on Land, as outlined in “The Global Goals”, which aims to protect and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity. Our efforts in plant conservation, such as the Centaurea margaritacea of Mykolaiv region, contribute to preserving life on land, showcasing our contribution to global conservation initiatives and sustainable development.
These unique red-listed plants have been included in the list of 20 species of endemic steppe plants that, according to the Ukrainian Nature Conservation Group, are at risk of extinction. They are unique to this territory and are found nowhere else in the world. The distinctive feature of these cornflowers is their flower heads, which resemble pearls.
The diversity of plants is essential for the proper functioning of all ecosystems, serving as the cornerstone of life on our planet. Ecosystems offer crucial services like carbon sequestration, climate regulation, nutrient cycling, pollination, and more. Plants supply us with food, medicine, clothing, and materials for numerous products, while also holding immense cultural and spiritual value.
Centaurea protomargaritacea Klokov, observed in Ukraine (Mykolaiv region); Photo: Roman (efarilis), 2019, for the inaturalist portal
Research Ukrainian steppe endemic plants to learn more about their beneficial properties
Engage artists to raise awareness about the loss of biodiversity and promote unique Ukrainian plants
Establish living collections of steppe endemics in Ukrainian botanical gardens and arboretums to restore populations in the future
зібрати Collect seeds of Ukrainian steppe endemic plants to increase their chances of preservation
зібрати Collect seeds of Ukrainian steppe endemic plants to increase their chances of preservation
WE AIM TO
The creation of nature reserves in places where endemics grow will ensure their legal protection
11/2024:
Register security requests
Planning
Planning
10/2024:
Launch a mobile exhibition
It will draw public attention to the consequences of the war on biodiversity and facilitate fundraising for the project's continuation
Planning
09/2024:
Develop educational materials
Four scientifically popular videos will contribute to raising ecological awareness among communities where endemics are grown
We will grow the collected seeds ex situ and document the process in instructions for botanists
08/2024:
Cultivate endemic species
Preparation
WE PLAN TO
Nazariy Kondratiuk
Nazariy Kondratiuk
Ihor Kostikov
Ihor Kostikov
Vitaliia Didenko
Vitaliia Didenko
Ivan Moysiienko
Ivan Moysiienko
Taisiia Druzenko
Taisiia Druzenko
Olena Khazova
A specialist with 14 years of experience, has collaborated on dozens of projects, including with PwC, IBM, UTAP, and BNP Paribas Group. Currently involved in developing the charitable project Behind Blue Eyes and the Ukrainian startup Control.
Designer
Nazariy Kondratiuk
Nazariy Kondratiuk
Ph.D. in Biological Sciences, Professor, Chair of the Working Group of the Ministry of Education and Science, Youth and Sports of Ukraine on the development of sectoral standards of higher education in the field of “Biology”.
Ihor Kostikov
Ihor Kostikov
Scientific consultant
A scientist in the field of biological sciences, known for her significant contributions to molecular-genetic research of the genus Centaurea L., as well as the cultivation of rare species in ex situ and in vitro conditions.
Vitaliia Didenko
Vitaliia Didenko
Botanist
A renowned expert in nature conservation in Ukraine. He has contributed to the creation of national natural parks such as “Dzharylgachsky”, “Oleshky”, “Nyzhnedniprovsky”, and “Kamianska Sich”.
Ivan Moysiienko
Ivan Moysiienko
Scientific supervisor
Executes local and international projects in the fields of visual and performative arts.
Project manager
Taisiia Druzenko
Taisiia Druzenko
With over five years of experience producing projects in the visual arts and cultural heritage field.
Olena Khazova
Сhef de projet
Team
Terms & conditions
Terms & conditions
Youtube
Youtube
If you're interested in collaborating, have an idea to propose, or would like to invite us for a cup of tea, or if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us