Depletion of Ukraine’s Soils Threatens Long-Term Global Food Security
Ukraine's soil nutrient depletion could impact crop production, affecting global food security.
Beyond disrupted food exports, the war jeopardizes Ukraine's ability to remain the 'breadbasket of Europe' due to soil degradation.
Soils are gradually losing vital crop nutrients, with more nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium being removed than added back.
- Reduced access to fertilisers during the war
- Inefficient farming practices
- Military activity exacerbating soil degradation and erosion
Researchers from the UK, Ukraine, and the Netherlands warn of this long-term impact.
Author's summary: Ukraine's soil depletion threatens global food security.