Principal Directions were developed in accordance with Article 16 of the Constitution of Ukraine, which states environmental safety and maintaining the ecological balance within the territory of Ukraine, dealing with the impact of the Chornobyl catastrophe (a global disaster), and maintaining the genetic pool of the Ukrainian people, are mandatory for the state. The Law consists of 8 Sections that contain 37 items. Section 1 outlines the state of environment. Section 2 establishes the main priorities in environmental protection and efficient use of natural resources. Section 3 determines strategy and tactics for harmonious development of production and natural resource potential. Section 4 establishes the main measures for the balanced usage and renewal of natural resources. Section 5 deals with major phases in implementing the principal directions of state policy of Ukraine in environmental protection, use of natural resources, and ensuring environmental safety. Section 6 establishes the mechanisms for the implementation of the principal directions of the state policy of Ukraine in environmental protection, use of natural resources, and ensuring environmental safety. Section 7 regards environmental expertise. Section 8 regards international cooperation.
Law No. 188/98 on Principal Directions of State Policy of Ukraine in Environmental Protection, Use of Natural Resources and Ensuring Environmental Safety.