Japan to help Ukraine’s fertile agricultural soil recover from Russian war damage

The Japanese government agency JICA and the KAKUICHI company are joining efforts to help Ukraine rejuvenate the country’s well-endowed black soil for agricultural use, as reported by Ukraine’s State Agency for the Development of Land Reclamation, Fisheries and Food Programs. 

Since Ukraine is the most mined country in the world, this initiative is especially crucial for areas severely affected by Russian occupation and the ongoing war. 

The partners plan to introduce nanobubble technology to enrich the topsoil with oxygen.

“Nanobubbles are tiny air bubbles that remain stable in water for extended periods, enhancing the penetration and diffusion of nutrients,” the agency said.

This technology will enable plants to better absorb nutrients, stimulating growth and boosting crop yields.

“What sets this technology apart is its ability to eliminate the need for chemical fertilizers. Instead, it uses an eco-friendly approach that improves water quality and maximizes the utilization of nutrients in the soil,” the agency said.

By the end of February, nanobubble systems will be installed in Kyiv, Odesa, and Poltava regions to test their effectiveness on Ukrainian fields. Each generator will be able to irrigate up to one hectare of land.

“While research on Ukrainian soils is just beginning, there is strong reason to believe that Japanese technologies will play a key role in restoring Ukraine’s agricultural potential,” the agency said.

KAKUICHI is a leading producer of nanobubble systems. The company has already delivered three generators to Ukraine as part of the pilot project.

“By changing how we use water, we are shaping a better future!” the agency said.

The Ukrainian government has announced that Ukraine will receive a grant from Japan worth 8.8 billion Japanese yen, or around $58 million.

The oldest Ukrainian organization in Japan, the nonprofit Kraiany Association of Ukraine-Japan Friendship, is also working with JICA to support Ukraine. 

You can learn more about the organization’s activities at the link.