Digitalisation of Environmental Management in Local Self-Government Bodies

In the context of growing challenges related to environmental pollution, climate change and increased anthropogenic pressure on natural systems, the digitalisation of environmental management plays a key role. The study aims to identify key problems that limit the effectiveness of local self-government bodies and to determine ways to improve their institutional capacity to ensure an adequate level of environmental safety at the local level. The study applies a systematic approach and uses methods of comparative analysis, statistical evaluation of results, content analysis of regulatory and legal acts, and questionnaires. Data from 10 territorial communities in different regions of Ukraine, selected based on criteria such as digital maturity, population size, and environmental impact, were analysed. The results of the study showed that the key barriers are insufficient funding for environmental programmes and limited human resources. Large cities scored highly at 4.5 out of 5 in institutional readiness; medium-sized cities scored an average of 3.6; and small communities scored lower (3.1), compensating for limited resources with high public engagement. Institutional capacity (coefficient 0.12; p = 0.009) and the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies (0.085; p = 0.01) had a positive impact on the level of environmental security. A positive correlation was found between GDP per capita (0.05; p = 0.013) and foreign direct investment (0.04; p = 0.027). In contrast, the share of industry in the economic structure has a negative impact (-0.03; p = 0.046), caused by increased environmental pressure. The index of fiscal autonomy of communities was 0.06 (p = 0.007). A conceptual model of a digital ecosystem for environmental management of communities has been developed. The practical significance of the results lies in the potential to use the developed recommendations to improve local environmental safety strategies, optimise resource allocation, and establish an effective environmental monitoring system. Prospects for further research include analysing the possibilities for digitalising management processes.