Smart fertilizers as a solution for the biodiversity and food security during the war in Ukraine

Abstract

The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine has resulted in widespread damages and loss of lives in highly populated cities, advanced to rural settings as well as sparked massive displacement amongst the population. The two nations are the key exporters of agronomic goods, and they play a huge role in supplying international markets with food products and fertilizers and the ongoing war has led to shortage of supply of these products. The purpose of this study is to present the current aspects related to the use of smart fertilizers as an opportunity to ensure food security and biodiversity. To fulfil this purpose, scientific publications were analysed, and the following groups of methods were employed: dialectical method of scientific cognition, general scientific and special methods. To summarise the scientific and methodological nature, an abstract-logical method of approach to examining the possibilities of using smart fertilizers in agriculture and drawing conclusions was used. Furthermore, the method of logical observation and analysis was used, and based on input data and correlations, conclusions were made that correspond to the object of the study. The generalization method was used to summarise the results of the study. As a result of the study, it was found that the use of smart fertilizers leads to less absorption of resources by agricultural crops, lesser losses in the form of leaching, run-off and denitrification, and a favourable impact on the surrounding natural environment. Moreover, their use is a necessary approach to increase the production of foods, which is necessary to make provision for the population and support economic development. The findings of the current study show that smart fertilizers can serve as a solution for the biodiversity and food security during the Russian invasion in Ukraine.