Soil Degradation Caused by Military Activities in Ukraine: Challenges and Prospects for Ecological Rehabilitation

Abstract

The full-scale war in Ukraine has caused unprecedented anthropogenic pressure on the soil cover, manifested in the complex degradation of its physical, chemical, and biological properties. This review article summarizes current data on the forms of soil degradation in combat zones, including mechanical destruction of structure, compaction, erosion processes, salinization, as well as chemical contamination by heavy metals, explosives, petroleum products, and combustion residues. Particular attention is paid to changes in soil microbiota, which serves as a sensitive indicator of ecological condition. Structural and functional shifts in microbial communities, reduction of enzymatic activity, and disruption of organic matter mineralization processes are analysed as reliable bioindicators of soil degradation. The article discusses modern approaches to ecological rehabilitation of affected areas through the use of plants and microorganisms. Special emphasis is placed on phytoremediation technologies that combine the ability of plants to accumulate, transform, and detoxify toxicants with the restoration of biogeochemical element cycling. The feasibility of using indicator and resistant plant species for the remediation of soils contaminated with heavy metals and explosive residues is also substantiated. It is concluded that a comprehensive assessment of microbiological, enzymatic, and physicochemical parameters is a necessary prerequisite for developing effective strategies for soil ecological rehabilitation in the post-war period. The results of the review can be used to formulate scientifically grounded recommendations for restoring the ecological stability of Ukraine’s agro-landscapes and for planning long-term soil and biodiversity conservation measures.