In the ongoing effort to mitigate the impact of war on Ukraine's agriculture, a collaborative initiative is underway to accelerate the recovery of agricultural lands devastated by military actions. A joint Ukrainian-British scientific team, supported by notable institutions and companies like the Royal Agricultural University (UK), Bern University of Applied Sciences (Switzerland), Sumy National Agrarian University (Ukraine), and Syngenta, has been making significant strides in this vital mission.

In early June 2024, the team embarked on a project across the regions of Sumy, Chernihiv, Kyiv, Mykolaiv, and Kherson, collecting over 300 soil samples from war-damaged areas. This endeavor is part of a broader initiative aimed at revitalizing Ukraine's agricultural productivity and ecological health, as reported by AgroPortal Ukraine accelerates the restoration of war-damaged agricultural lands.

Scientific Analysis and Remediation Plans

The soil samples are being analyzed for potentially toxic microelements, with measurements conducted both in the field using portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) devices and in laboratories. This comprehensive analysis will include assessing heavy metal elements, pH levels, cation exchange capacity, base saturation, and particle size distribution among other factors. The results from these studies are expected to guide the development of tailored soil remediation plans for agricultural producers.

Honorary Professor Olena Melnyk from the Royal Agricultural University of the United Kingdom emphasized the ongoing collaboration's importance: "Despite the challenges associated with the escalating situation in the country, our project continues to develop, providing new impetus and prospects thanks to our research collaboration with Syngenta."

International Support and Sustainability Efforts

This project not only focuses on immediate recovery but also on long-term sustainability and resilience of the agricultural lands. Professor Mark Horton from the Royal Agricultural University noted, "The restoration of Ukraine's agricultural lands is of the highest priority. We hope to be able to provide effective recommendations on how to do this safely and efficiently. The support of Syngenta for our research is highly appreciated."

The initiative is also notable for its inclusion of local and international expertise. Ukrainian scientists, along with their counterparts from Switzerland and the United Kingdom, are working together to develop sustainable strategies that ensure the soil's health and productivity are restored.

The Broader Impact

The efforts to restore agricultural lands in Ukraine are critical not just for the nation's food security but also for global markets that depend on Ukrainian agricultural products. By restoring these lands and making them safe for agricultural production again, the project aims to have a far-reaching impact on both local communities and international food supply chains.

The collaboration between governmental bodies, educational institutions, international companies, and local farmers underscores a unified approach to tackling the challenges posed by the war. It is a testament to the resilience and determination of the Ukrainian agricultural community and their international partners in these trying times.

As Ukraine continues to navigate through the complexities of war and recovery, such initiatives offer a beacon of hope and a model for collaborative, science-based environmental and agricultural recovery efforts worldwide.

The project is coordinated by the GreenUkraine.CH/ RETURN support office team, ensuring streamlined operations and strategic alignment with recovery objectives.