Environmental damages of natural components of Karabakh region of Republic of Azerbaijan

Abstract

The Karabakh region, located in the eastern and southeastern ridges of the Lesser Caucasus in Azerbaijan, has a rich historical and geographical significance. However, following the collapse of the USSR, Karabakh declared independence from Azerbaijan, leading to decades of illegal military control by Armenia, fundamentally contradicting international law and Azerbaijan’s official borders. This occupation severely impacted the region’s natural and economic structures, weakening its economic infrastructure and depleting natural resources. This research paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the environmental degradation occurred in Karabakh and the surrounding districts during nearly three decades of occupation. The study focuses on various natural com- ponents, including water sources, soil, subsoil resources, mineral resources, and biodiversity, with a specific emphasis on the innovative Smart Village Aghaly project in Zangilan. The primary objective of this article is to underscore the disruption of natural complexes in the liberated regions of Azerbaijan, the restoration of ecological balance, and restoring of harmonious relationships between nature and society. The research highlights the complexity of interactions between humanity and the environment in the context of regenerating land- scapes and natural monuments damaged by prolonged military aggression. The findings reveal extensive ecological damage, including pollution of water resources, destruction of biodiversity, plundering subsoil reserves, and degradation of soil assets. The paper emphasizes the critical need for comprehensive restoration efforts and strategic interventions to address these challenges. By integrating ecological and geographical analysis, statistical data, field and expedition reports, and satellite imagery, this study provides a detailed assessment of the environmental impact on Karabakh. The research underscores the importance of international cooperation and adherence to environmental protection conventions to prevent future ecological damage and ensure sustainable management of natural resources.