Depletion of Ukraine’s Soils Threatens Long-Term Global Food Security
Researchers warn that nutrient depletion in Ukraine's soils could lead to a long-term impact on crop production, affecting global food security.
Beyond the disruption to Ukraine's food exports, the war is jeopardising the country's ability to remain the 'breadbasket of Europe', as its soils are losing vital crop nutrients.
- Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are being removed from soils via harvested crops at a higher rate than they are being added back.
- Reduced access to fertilisers during the war and inefficient farming practices are contributing to this issue.
- Military activity has exacerbated existing soil degradation and erosion across Ukraine.
Ukraine's soils are gradually losing vital crop nutrients.
Author's summary: Ukraine's soil depletion threatens global food security.