4. An Integrated Methodological Framework for Advancing Information and Communication Technology in Environmental Protection Within the Context of Ukraine’s National Security

Information and communication technology (ICT), in general, is widely understood as a building block for the social and economic dimensions of society. The informatization of social and economic activities is widely available online and closely interlinked with ecological aspects. This chapter is devoted to the problems of developing the ecological dimension, by way of an ICT system, that caters to national security by integrating it. Scholars have linked this issue and noted a catalyst-like effect on the level of environmental awareness and development of people. Modern societies avail that informed, information-friendly citizens can increase their awareness and expand their country’s integration into the world system of sustainability and environmental thinking. Specifically, a look at the different ICT properties in the context of an ecological view is identified alongside the question of how broad national security systems can be formed. A methodological ICT framework for environmental development is presented via three requisites, i.e., forming ecological policy, categorizing ICT processes, and monitoring environmental perception and awareness. This overriding view is thought to be able to strengthen the foundational outlook of society, i.e., via an active participatory public, willing to engage in environmental development for national security and its own self-interest. Using this background, Ukraine is evaluated, and options are presented to help rectify the country’s lack of initiative. Case research into Ukraine elucidates that affording the state with effective, theoretical, and applied mechanisms that monitor the activities of ICT, in terms of environmental development, is a practical solution and could assist in the current war effort. It is believed that this will actively function as a basis for the formation and strengthening of the country’s national security—especially via internal and external threats—posed by hostile entities (e.g., the Russian Federation), anti-environmental actions, and a business-as-usual school of thought. Current trends in the development of the internet and its relationship with the processes of national security are studied and systematized. Sequential steps are presented to help develop long-term ICT ecological planning, and a synthesis of the main ICT components is categorized. Moreover, site-specific environmental laws are examined, and the term global information space is defined. Both are considered essential to Ukraine’s information network and eco-information space. For the formation and strengthening of Ukraine’s national security apparatus, specific environmental protocols are highlighted as essential for ecological policy restructuring and reform.