Land reclamation as a means of preserving and enhancing soil fertility in the context of climate change

Abstract

This article examines the role of land reclamation as one of the key tools for preserving and enhancing soil fertility in the context of contemporary climate change. It justifies the relevance of developing land reclamation measures in light of rising air temperatures, increasing deficits in natural moisture, the spread of drought conditions, soil degradation, and growing risks to food security. The aim of the study is to assess the current state of land reclamation systems in Ukraine, identify the main problems affecting their operation, and justify priority areas for restoration and development in the context of climate change and military challenges. The methodological basis of the study comprises general scientific methods of analysis, comparison, and generalisation, statistical analysis, as well as remote sensing methods using Sentinel Hub satellite data, raster statistics, histogram analysis, and the Normalised Difference Water Index (NDWI). The study analysed the current state of irrigated and drained lands, the technical condition of land reclamation infrastructure, the specifics of its operation, the legislative framework for reforming the sector, and the consequences of full-scale war for land reclamation systems, particularly following the destruction of the Kakhovka hydroelectric power station. The study found that the restoration and modernisation of irrigation and drainage systems, the conduct of a survey of reclaimed land, the improvement of engineering infrastructure management, the development of water users’ organisations, state support, and the attraction of investment are essential prerequisites for improving the efficiency of land use and ensuring the resilience of agricultural production to climate change. The practical significance of these findings lies in their potential application in shaping government policy on land reclamation, planning the restoration of land reclamation infrastructure, and implementing measures to adapt agriculture to current climate challenges.