Abstract
Studying the species diversity and condition of monumental trees contributes to their preservation and is important for public awareness of their role in ecosystems and the country’s ecological heritage. The purpose of the study was to reveal the significance of such trees for society. The task of the work was to research the characteristics of monumental trees in Ukraine. The history of environmental protection is analysed and the features of monumental tree preservation in Ukraine are presented. The beginning of environmental protection activity related to the preservation of trees in Ukraine and the most active periods have been revealed of it. The national features of the popularization of monumental trees are given. Based on the analysis of botanical natural monuments cadastres of Ukraine and Kyiv, quantitative and species composition of monumental trees were established. The most common (Quercus robur), common, less common and rare (Buxus sempervirens, Catalpa bignonioides, Metasequoia glyptostroboides, Pseudotsuga menziesii, Rhododendron myrtifolium, Sequoiadendron giganteum and others) species of monumental trees have been established, and important issues regarding their conservation are indicated. According to the types of street plantings, the majority (68%) are single trees. To assess the awareness of the population about ancient trees, the method of sociological survey of respondents was used. The most significant values of monumental trees for the population were studied. The importance of the populations’ awareness of old trees through the development of an emotional connection with them, which contributes to their protection, has been established. The obtained results can be used in future environmental protection activity, exchanging of scientists’ experience from different countries regarding the preservation of such trees, enrichment of information about growth characteristics, historical facts or other issues related to these trees