“Natural Border” – First Ukrainian Documentary on Peatlands Premieres in Greifswald

This marks the first-ever Ukrainian documentary focused on peatlands, an ecosystem of global ecological importance but rarely discussed in Ukraine. The film’s directors, Olesia Morhunets-Isaienko and Roman Synchuk, traveled all the way from Ukraine to present their work in Greifswald – since the city is a hotspot for peatland studies. 

The documentary connects two main locations: the Rivne State Nature Reserve in Ukraine and Greifswald and its surroundings in Germany. Through interviews led by director Olesia Morhunets-Isaienko, the film features insights from experts including Prof. Michael Succow, Prof. Hans Joosten, and Jan Peters, Managing Director of the Michael Succow Foundation. 

The event was moderated by Jan Peters and welcomed over 30 attendees from seven different nationalities. The opening remarks were delivered by Prof. Dr. Hans Joosten, who underlined the importance of international collaboration in peatland protection. 

Prior to its Greifswald screening, Natural Border premiered in Kyiv on October 9th during Climate Week, drawing a crowd of nearly 400 people. For many, it was an eye-opening introduction to the world of peatlands – a topic still underrepresented in Ukrainian public discourse. 

The Greifswald screening took place at the #PeatlandLibrary and fostered deep discussion. Guests had the opportunity to speak directly with the filmmakers, learning about the challenges of shooting in wetland areas- 

The production of the film was made possible through the collaboration of local communities, rangers, and support from the Zoologische Gesellschaft Frankfurt von 1858 e.V.  

“Natural Border” is more than just a documentary – it’s a bridge between landscapes, cultures, and scientific perspectives. And it sends a clear message: Peatlands Matter.  

🎬 Watch the trailer here