Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 11294: Pollution Problems in the Economic Agricultural Sector: Evaluating the Impact on Natural Resources and Solutions for Improvement

Fecha de publicación: 23/12/2024
Fuente: Sustainability - Revista científica (MDPI)
Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 11294: Pollution Problems in the Economic Agricultural Sector: Evaluating the Impact on Natural Resources and Solutions for Improvement
Sustainability doi: 10.3390/su162411294
Authors:
Lubov Moldavan
Olena Pimenowa
Piotr Prus
Sergiusz Pimenow

In the face of modern global challenges and the growing impacts of anthropogenic activity, the issue of agricultural pollution of natural resources has become a critical issue, especially in countries experiencing ecological and social crises. Ukraine, as one of Europe’s largest agricultural producers, faces unique challenges stemming from the legacy of radiation contamination following the Chornobyl nuclear disaster, intensive land use, and the environmental consequences of military conflict. Our study focuses on analyzing the sources of agricultural pollution, including chemical runoff, pesticides, herbicides, heavy metals, and nutrient leaching, as well as their impacts on the sustainability of agroecosystems, food security, and human well-being. The methodology is based on a systematic analysis of scientific research, agrochemical surveys, monitoring reports, and documents from governmental and non-governmental organizations. The assessment of natural resources was conducted using an integrated approach combining quantitative and qualitative pollution indicators. The results reveal an increasing threat to natural resources in Ukraine due to outdated technologies, radiation contamination, and military activities. Special attention is given to the need for a transition to agroecological farming methods and bioremediation for restoring contaminated lands and water resources. The study contributes to the development of sustainable approaches to managing natural resources and strategic measures to minimize agricultural pollution. The Ukrainian context underscores the relevance of research in countries with transitional economies and unique environmental challenges, making the findings significant for international scientific agendas and environmental policy. Future research perspectives include developing innovative technologies to prevent pollution and enhance the sustainability of agroecosystems to ecological challenges, as well as creating international resource management models based on Ukraine’s experience.