Socio-demographic consequences of environmental problems of the Western region of Ukraine

This work has carried out a comprehensive study of the impact of environmental factors on demographic processes in the western regions of Ukraine. Attention is focused on the study of both common and specific environmental problems of Lviv, Zakarpattia, Ivano-Frankivsk, Ternopil and Chernivtsi regions, which have a significant impact on the health and structure of the population of these regions. Particular attention is paid to Lviv region, as the largest in terms of population and industrial potential, for a detailed analysis of the age structure, dynamics of the number of active age groups and the reproductive population. The relationship between changes in demographic indicators and the level of environmental pollution has been studied. A correlation analysis has been conducted between the level of mortality from diseases and the amount of emissions of pollutants into the air. A significant correlation was found between mortality from respiratory diseases and the concentration of solid suspended particles in the air (ρ = 0.874), nitrogen oxide emissions (ρ = 0.855) and non-methane volatile organic compounds; the statistical relationship of these emissions with diseases of the circulatory system as causes of mortality was also studied. These indicators indicate a significant impact of anthropogenic pollution on the health of the population and the demogra­phic situation in the region. In addition to analyzing the current state, the article proposes promising ways to improve the environmental situation in the western regions of Ukraine. In particular, the emphasis is on the introduction of environmentally friendly technologies, reducing emissions of harmful substances and increasing environmental awareness of the population. It is determined that the integrated use of environmental mechanisms can contribute to stabilizing the demographic situation, reducing mortality and improving the quality of life of the population of the region. The results obtained are important for developing strategies for sustainable regional development aimed at improving environmental safety, health protection, and demographic stability.