Agricultural sector circular economy development: Agroecological approach

This study aimed to investigate the feasibility of using agroecological concepts to establish a circular economy in the agricultural industry. The paper examined circular economy as a novel economic development paradigm that seeks to optimise resource utilisation and reduce waste, particularly in the agriculture industry. The main principle of the circular economy is resource conservation, which includes the rational use of land, water and energy, as well as the preservation of biodiversity and the improvement of soil fertility. An analysis was conducted on the economic advantages of adopting a circular economy in the agriculture industry, which include the reduction of production costs, enhancement of productivity, and generation of new employment opportunities. The study also addressed the importance of digitalisation, which can significantly increase the efficiency of agricultural production using modern digital technologies for monitoring soil conditions, managing water resources and optimising processes. This paper examined the effects of the war in Ukraine on the agricultural industry, specifically highlighting a substantial decrease in the output of key crops and livestock products. A comprehensive examination of the destruction of infrastructure, soil, and water contamination exposed severe environmental issues resulting from the attacks. The successful circular concepts implemented by European countries such as the Netherlands, Sweden, Denmark, and France can be applied to the post-war revival of the Ukrainian agriculture industry. The study also addressed the experience of the Ukrainian company Kernel, which successfully implements circular practices such as recycling of production waste, use of biomass and introduction of precision farming, which reduces environmental impact and increases production efficiency. Based on the analysis, recommendations for the post-war reconstruction of Ukraine’s agricultural sector were proposed, including the identification of priority regions for recovery, stimulation of innovation and modern technologies, support for small and medium-sized farms, development of irrigation systems, environmental restoration and protection, international cooperation and support, and education and training