Man and Environment. Issues of Neoecology

Hydrochemical composition features of surface waters of the right-bank part of the Siverskiy Donets basin (Kharkiv region)

N. L. Rychak — 2025-12-30

Purpose. To determine seasonal variations in the hydrochemical composition of surface waters and assess the ecological status of water bodies on the right bank of the Siverskyi Donets River within Kharkiv region.

Methods. Field studies, analytical, system analysis, methodology for determining the water pollution index, systematic approach to generalized results.

Results. There are the results of the ecological assessment of the water quality of the right-bank tributaries of the Siverskyi Donets River flowing through Kharkiv region during the spring-summer flood and autumn low water period of 2024 in the Velyka Babka River and the Molodova Pond at six representative sites, reflecting different economic uses. Organoleptic, physical- chemical indicators, and heavy metal content were determined in the waters. The results show that all hygienic indicators except hardness complied with the standards. The ecological quality of the rivers on the right bank of the Siverskyi Donets basin was assessed using the water pollution index based on our own field studies and information from open sources. The research has identified, among the existing sources of pollution, urban municipal wastewater, operating enterprises, the effects of agriculture, as well as military operations (the Velyka Babka River), and the diffuse impact of neighboring tributaries.

Conclusions. According to the surface water pollution index, all rivers on the right bank of the Siverskyi Donets belong to pollution class III, moderately polluted, with only the Bereka River classified as class II. Although the overall condition of the water remains satisfactory, we should take measures to improve water quality, especially for rivers such as the Udy, Mоzh, and Tetlega, which are affected by industrial enterprises and agriculture. The Chepil, Gomilsh, Bereka, and Byshkin rivers require detailed field hydrochemical studies to determine the pollution level.

Quantitative assessment of current trends in water use in Volyn region

V. O. Fesyuk — 2025-12-30

Purpose. To carry out a quantitative assessment of the main trends in water use in Volyn Region, analyze the dynamics of water withdrawal across key sectors and identify the major factors influencing changes in the structure and volumes of water resource use.

Methods. Statistical analysis, systems approach, predictive modelling and scenario analysis.

Results. The water balance of Volyn Region is non-deficit, and available resources fully meet regional needs. In 2024, total water withdrawal reached 45.71 million m³, of which 36.3 million m³ were groundwater. Only about 4% of their estimated reserves are currently used. The main water users are the municipal sector (50%), agriculture, and industry. A key issue is high water losses during transportation (nearly 17%). The volume of discharged wastewater amounted to 29.08 million m³, most of which was treated. Wastewater treatment facilities operate close to their capacity, creating risks of declining water quality in the Pripyat and Western Bug rivers. Negative impacts include local excesses of biogenic substances and challenges associated with decentralized water supply. In general, the region's water management system is stable, but it needs modernization of treatment facilities, water supply and wastewater networks, and strengthening of environmental control.

Conclusions. Hydroecological problems in Volyn Region are complex and stem from worn-out infrastructure, increasing wastewater volumes, and agricultural impacts, resulting in reduced natural self-purification capacity of water bodies. At the same time, positive trends are observed: the development of water reuse, modernization of treatment facilities, and more efficient technologies. Priorities include reducing water losses, upgrading treatment systems, expanding closed water-use cycles in industry, promoting water-saving practices in agriculture, implementing digital monitoring, integrated water management, and strengthening public involvement in addressing water-use challenges.

Drinking water quality from various sources in the Shevchenkivsky district of Kharkiv

A. A. Lisnyak — 2025-12-30

Purpose. Assessment of drinking water quality from different sources (centralized, decentralized) in the Shevchenkivskyi district of Kharkiv.

Methods. Field, analytical, statistical.

Results. Representative samples were selected from various water supply sources: natural springs, wells, city water supply. Organoleptic properties, physicochemical parameters and toxicological indicators were determined. Based on the analysis of all these characteristics in accordance with the requirements of DSTU 4808, it was determined that samples of artesian water TM "Shestakivska" are characterized by an optimal neutral pH, low metal content, moderate hardness and do not exceed the regulatory values for any indicator. Water samples from private wells in the Shevchenkivskyi district of Kharkiv have increased total hardness, mineralization and salinity, which indicates the need for additional purification from salts. Water from centralized water supply, in addition to high total hardness, was characterized by the highest content of chlorine, iron and copper. A study was conducted to improve the quality of tap water at home. In particular, the effects of boiling, settling, freezing and filtering water on reducing the content of total salts and improving organoleptic indicators were studied.

Conclusions. Artesian water of the Shestakivska trademark has the 1st quality class based on full compliance with the standards. Tap and spring water is classified as the 2nd quality class due to excess hardness and increased mineralization. The lowest indicators were recorded in water from a private well, which is classified as the 3rd quality class due to a significant excess of the hardness standard. An effective household method of demineralization of water is freezing and filtration.

Formation of failure relief in the conditions of mining landscapes of the Kryvyi Rih landscape-technical system

T. S. Koptieva — 2025-12-30

Purpose. To establish the patterns of formation and development of the failed relief as a transitional tier of the two-tier structure of mining landscapes of the Kryvyi Rih landscape-technical system and to assess its impact on the modern morphodynamics of the Kryvyi Rih landscape-technical system.

Methods. Field observations, geomorphological analysis, comparative-analytical method, cartographic modelling, GIS analysis.

Results: The relief is one of the key morphological elements of the two-tier structure of the mining landscapes of the Kryvyi Rih landscape-technical system. It was determined that the most intense zones of displacement are recorded within the boundaries of Sukha Balka OJSC, the Kolachevsky and Galkovsky ore management departments, the Oleksandrivsky mine, and the Kozatska mine. Two groups of sinkhole processes have been recorded: regular ones associated with planned mining activities and random ones caused by uncontrolled geodynamic factors. It has also been found that sinkholes form not only above mine workings, but also within the dumps located above them. The largest subsidence forms, in particular the subsidence zone of the Kozatska mine and the Galkovsky corner zone, demonstrate the high intensity of modern deformations of the earth's surface. Geomorphological analysis revealed the structural and morphological features of the two-tier structure of mining landscapes and traced the relationship between surface and underground processes. The comparative-analytical method made it possible to compare the current state of subsidence formations with data from previous observations, revealing a tendency towards an increase in the area of deformation zones. Cartographic modelling enabled the construction of maps showing the spatial distribution of subsidence zones within the main ore mining areas, while GIS analysis enabled the visualisation of spatial connections between surface and underground layers.

Conclusions: The collapsed relief is an integral component of the two-tier structure of the mining landscapes of the Kryvyi Rih landscape-technical system. It is formed as a transitional tier that connects the surface and underground levels, providing a morphogenetic link between them. Collapse processes are regular and random in nature, indicating the complex geodynamic activity of technogenically transformed massifs. The results obtained confirm the need for further monitoring of technogenic processes to prevent the development of dangerous situations and stabilise the landscape structure of the region.

Gas station emissions: risk assessment in the context of ensuring sustainable development

O. A. Karaim — 2025-12-30

Purpose. To carry out an inventory of pollutant emissions generated by the operation of a filling station and to assess the total non-carcinogenic risk in the context of ensuring sustainable development.

Methods. Experimental and analytical methods, as well as mathematical modeling and forecasting techniques.

Results. An analysis of atmospheric emissions from a filling station located in the Lutsk district of the Volyn region was conducted. The sources of pollutant formation at the facility include underground steel horizontal cylindrical tanks for gasoline and diesel fuel storage, double-sided fuel dispensers, above-ground steel tanks for liquefied petroleum gas, and a gas-filling dispenser. Maximum one-time and annual emissions were determined using instrumental measurements, analytical calculations, design data, and technological standards. According to the total annual volume of emissions, the facility belongs to the third category. The operation of the filling station results in the release of hydrogen sulfide, saturated hydrocarbons, benzene, xylene, toluene, propane, and butane into the atmospheric air. The calculated ground-level concentrations of pollutants, including background pollution, at the boundary of the sanitary protection zone and residential areas do not exceed hygienic standards. The hazard index values for the four control points correspond to a warning level of total non-carcinogenic risk. The identified level of risk requires further monitoring and the implementation of emission-reduction measures, which is an essential prerequisite for ensuring sustainable development.

Conclusions. Pollutant concentrations at the boundary of the sanitary protection zone do not exceed regulatory limits. However, the warning level of total non-carcinogenic risk necessitates continued monitoring, assessment of potential health impacts, and the implementation of effective environmental protection measures. Reducing emissions is a critical condition for the safe operation of the filling station and for supporting the sustainable development of the surrounding area.

The war anthropogenic impact on the conditions of the Desna river surface waters

L. A. Horoshkovа — 2025-12-30

Purpose. To provide a comprehensive environmental assessment of the condition of the surface waters of the Desna River in order to identify the main anthropogenic factors of impact, in particular the consequences of the war.

Methods. System analysis, statistical data processing methods, retrospective dynamics analysis, and forecasting of future trends.

Results. In order to assess the anthropogenic load, including that caused by the war, on the condition of the surface waters of the Desna River, an analysis was carried out using long-term data from the Water Monitoring Laboratory of the Desna Basin Water Resources Authority for the monitoring stations: Chernihiv, 200 km; Brovary, 20 km; and Kyiv, 3 km. The research was conducted for the following indicators: biochemical oxygen demand over 5 days (BOD₅) and dissolved oxygen, phosphate ions and ammonium ions, nitrite ions and nitrate ions, sulfate ions and chloride ions. Special attention was paid to the analysis of pollution of the surface waters of the Desna River originating from the territory of the Russian Federation. It was established that in 2024 the most significant pollution was recorded in Chernihiv. An increase in the BOD₅ level was observed, exceeding the MPC (maximum permissible concentration) levels, along with a sharp decrease in the dissolved oxygen level. This indicates the entry of organic pollutants into the waters of the Desna River, which led to intensified decomposition processes. After September 21, 2024, the situation improved, as evidenced by a decrease in the BOD₅ level and an increase in dissolved oxygen. It was proven that this resulted from the entry into the river of phosphate and ammonium ions, as well as nitrite ions. Similar studies were carried out for the Brovary (20 km) and Kyiv (3 km) stations. It was found that the inflow of pollutants from the territory of the Russian Federation into the Desna River after August 26, 2024, did not affect the BOD₅ values and dissolved oxygen levels at these sites.

Conclusions. The study identified the main environmental problems of the Desna River, in particular organic and mineral pollution, disturbance of the hydrological regime, and a decrease in oxygen levels. It was established that in 2024 the Desna River near Chernihiv (Chernihiv station, 200 km) experienced the greatest anthropogenic impact. Deterioration of water quality indicators was recorded for all analyzed parameters. The situation was better at the other two stations. Pollution of the Desna River with nitrite ions was observed only at the Chernihiv (200 km) station and was not significant at the Brovary (20 km) or Kyiv (3 km) stations. Since the BOD₅ and dissolved oxygen indicators normalized at the end of September, there is reason to believe that self-purification of the surface waters in the river occurred.

Ensuring compliance with the Water Framework Directive when regulating pollutant discharges into wastewater

S. M. Yurasov — 2025-12-30

Purposes. Development of scientifically based proposals for taking into account the conditions of the Water Framework Directive of the European Union and river basin management plans when calculating maximum permissible discharges of pollutants with wastewater using domestic methods.

Methods. Statistical, as well as methods of mathematical modelling and forecasting.

Results. According to the provisions of the Water Framework Directive and at the initial stage of river basin management plans, the quality of water in a water body for a certain past period is considered to meet the requirements of EU standards if the probability of exceeding (security) of the standards for each indicator does not exceed the specified limit F. Based on this, it is proposed to carry out standardization, as well as the associated assessment and forecasting of surface water quality using indicators with security F. This approach ensures the coordination of domestic methods of the aforementioned calculations with the requirements of EU legislation. The proposed provisions are tested on the example of the analysis of the temporal variability of water quality indicators of the Danube rivers (according to observations during 2015–2024) and the Dniester (according to retrospective observations of 2001–2017). It is shown that when using average values of indicators, the requirements of the Water Framework Directive and river basin management plans are often not met, since the provision of these values can significantly exceed the established restrictions on the frequency of exceedances of the maximum permissible concentration. To gradually achieve "good status" of surface water bodies when regulating pollutant discharges with wastewater, it is advisable to use the values of indicators with a provision of 10%, 5% and 2.5% as calculated (background). At the same time, in the presence of time trends of indicators, it is necessary to forecast their values to ensure the requirements of the Water Framework Directive, especially with positive trends.

Conclusions. According to the requirements of the Water Framework Directive and river basin management plans, in order to gradually achieve good status of surface water bodies at the initial stage, it is advisable to take the value of F equal to 10%, 5% and 2.5%. It is advisable to standardize pollutant discharges taking into account the time trends of indicators, since ignoring a positive trend leads to an overestimation of the calculated values, which is unacceptable, while the presence of a negative trend, on the contrary, leads to their underestimation, which is acceptable from the point of view of environmental protection.

Methodological basis for systematic analysis of military soil degradation

A. O. Popsuy — 2025-12-30

Purpose. To substantiate the methodological foundations of the systematic analysis of degradation processes in soils of military origin and to form an integrated model for assessing their condition, dynamics and forecasting restoration. The scientific need for the creation of an interdisciplinary monitoring system combining geochemical, physical-mechanical, microbiological and landscape-analytical approaches is identified.

Methods. Mathematical modeling, statistical analysis and machine learning systems were used to process and generalize data, which provided a comprehensive assessment of the impact of military factors on the condition of soils.

Results. The study used system-ecological and geoinformation approaches, methods of toxicological analysis, remote sensing, as well as index assessment of degradation processes using integral indicators - the index of ecological soil degradation (IEDS), the index of structural-biological stability (ISBS) and the coefficient of military-technogenic load (WTC). It has been proven that the degradation of soils of military origin has a cascading nature: primary mechanical damage causes secondary processes - compaction, erosion, reduced water permeability, loss of microbiological activity and structural stability. According to the results of the analysis, it was established that in areas of active hostilities, the concentrations of toxic elements exceed the maximum permissible values by 5–12 times, and microbiological activity decreases by 35–65%. The developed system model allows identifying territories with the highest level of degradation, predicting further changes in the state of soils and forming priorities for reclamation. The combination of GIS mapping, bioindication and analytical modeling creates a scientific basis for ecological and management decisions in the field of post-conflict recovery.

Conclusions. The proposed methodological scheme of system analysis is an effective tool for assessing degradation processes in soils of military origin. It provides integration of multi-level environmental data, contributes to the formation of adaptive reclamation strategies and increases the efficiency of state environmental monitoring. The use of such a system will minimize social and environmental risks, preserve agricultural landscapes and support sustainable development of affected areas.

Towards the improvement of the methodology for assessing damage from soil contamination caused by emergencies and armed aggression

O. M. Krainiukov — 2025-12-30

Purposes. Analyze research on improving the methodology for determining the amount of damage from soil contamination due to emergencies and armed aggression.

Results. Based on a analysis of the current regulatory framework, domestic and foreign scientific reserths, significant shortcomings of the current Methodology are outlined, in particular, limited consideration of soil degradation types, insufficient scientific validity of coefficients, and the absence of a comprehensive cost approach.Taking into account the potential impacts of hostilities on land resources and soil degradation, an attempt made to substantiate key proposals for improving the current methods for determining damage and losses caused to soil as a result of armed aggression.

Conclusions.The need to include the costs of research, monitoring and analysis of pollution in the total amount of damage is argued. The proposed clarifications are aimed at increasing the accuracy of environmental accounting and forming sustainable principles of public management in the field of environmental restoration.

Ecological-geomorphological transformations of inert landscape components in industrial zones

I. D. Zelenchuk — 2025-12-30

Purpose. Comprehensive assessment of eco-geomorphological changes in inert components of the landscape caused by intensive construction activity in newly developed industrial zones of Ukraine, with consideration of the use of modern prefabricated building technologies.

Methods. The field investigations, systemic and comparative geographical analysis, statistical, morphometric assessment, as well as the method of correlation and comparison

Results. The results of field and analytical investigations demonstrated that construction activity constitutes a determining factor in the formation of zones with intensive technogenic pressure on soil cover. The highest levels of heavy metal contamination were recorded within active construction sites and adjacent material storage areas. Specifically, zinc (Zn) concentrations in these locations corresponding to the category of extremely high contamination according to the classification criteria for ecological soil quality assessment. Regression analysis revealed a statistically significant inverse correlation between the distance from the construction activity center and the accumulation level of heavy metals in the soil profile. Within the facies subjected to prolonged engineering intervention, a marked transformation of the vegetation structure was observed. Areas exposed to mechanical soil disturbance are characterized by a reduction in natural vegetation cover, a decline in species diversity, and the dominance of adaptive, primarily invasive, species. The displacement of biocenotic equilibrium promotes the exclusion of autochthonous flora species characteristic of the (natural) sites under investigation, leading to the formation of monodominant communities with low ecological resistance and impaired capacity for natural regeneration.

Conclusions. The development of industrial zones in areas predominantly used for agriculture and forestry leads to significant ecogeomorphological transformations of the inert components of the landscape. The application of an integrated methodological approach enabled the quantitative assessment of changes in morphostructure, soil cover, and hydrological regime, as well as the detection of increased heavy metal contamination in soils within construction sites. Disruptions in the interaction between inert and biotic components of geosystems were identified, resulting in reduced ecological resilience. The findings can serve as a scientific basis for optimizing spatial planning, implementing monitoring measures, and guiding environmental management of industrial infrastructure development in agro-landscapes.

Environmental problems of the Zdovbytsia territorial community and ways to solve them

I. M. Siruk — 2025-12-30

Purpose. To analyze the environmental problems of the Zdovbytsia United Territorial Community (Rivne region, Ukraine) and to propose practical solutions for their resolution in the context of sustainable development.

Methods. Analytical approach, statistical, sociological, systematic analysis.

Results. It was found that the most pressing environmental issues of the community include air pollution from vehicles and industrial enterprises, unauthorized landfills, insufficient modern waste disposal sites, deterioration of surface and groundwater quality, dust pollution from mineral extraction activities, and degradation of green spaces. A low level of environmental awareness among residents was identified, leading to weak support for environmental initiatives. Based on the analysis, the following solutions were proposed: implementation of separate collection and recycling systems for waste; establishment of official waste reception points; modernization of wastewater treatment facilities; enhancement of environmental monitoring of air and water resources; restoration of green zones; introduction of environmental education programs for students and adults; and encouragement of businesses to adopt environmentally friendly technologies.

Conclusions. Effective resolution of the environmental problems in the Zdovbytsia community is possible through the combination of administrative, educational, and economic measures, as well as active cooperation between local authorities, the public, and the business sector. It is essential to ensure a systematic approach to environmental policy planning aimed at creating a safe, healthy, and comfortable living environment.

A comprehensive approach to green roof typology forming in the context of eco-friendly construction standardization

T. M. Kushniruk — 2025-12-30

Purpose. Development of a green roof classification system adapted to the climatic, architectural, and regulatory conditions of green construction in Ukraine, taking into account architectural, spatial, functional, environmental, and social factors.

Methods. Systemic-structural, and case analysis were used, as well as comparative-analytical, classification-typological, synthetic, and matrix-rating methods.

Results. A multi-level classification of green roofs is formed according to the degree of exploitation, intensity of greening, location, and social accessibility. The developed system allows systematizing the structural, functional, and environmental parameters of green roofs. The scientific novelty lies in the creation of a nationally adapted typology of green roofs as an element of the greening of the built environment. The practical significance lies in the possibility of using the results to develop standards and regulatory documents, and the research prospects include further integration of the classification into green building standards.

Conclusions. It has been proven that the expanded systematization of green roof typology contributes to the improvement of green building standards, increased energy efficiency of buildings, preservation of biodiversity, and the formation of an environmentally and socially oriented urban environment.

The response of radial growth of scots pine to climate change in the planting of the Arboretum of the Biotechnological University in Kharkiv

I. M. Koval — 2025-12-30

Purpose. of the study is to identify the features of the response of the radial growth of Scots pine to climate change in a stand growing in the Arboretum of the Biotechnology University in Kharkiv.

Methods. Silvicultural, dendrochronological, statistical and correlation analysis methods were applied.

Results. 11 cores were selected from tree trunks with a Pressler borer. Layers of late, early and tree ring widths were measured using the HENSON device. An index local tree-ring chronology was created. The biological (age) trend was removed using the 3-year sliding method. A correlation analysis was conducted between index tree-ring chronologies and climatic factors (precipitation and temperatures from June of the previous year to August of the current year).Against the background of increasing temperatures, three periods of pine stand development were distinguished by indicators of late, early and annual wood. Late wood turned out to be the most variable compared to annual and early wood. It was established that there was a weakening of pine plantations during the third period. This is evidenced by the largest number of significant correlations between radial growth of pine and climatic factors for 2009-2022. In 1978-1993, the temperatures of the previous year’s growing season (June-August) limited the growth of early and annual wood of the current year, and in the following periods 1994-2022 this influence weakened. In 2008-2022 temperatures in March-August limited the radial growth of pine more than in 1979-1993. The lack of stable snow cover associated with warming in winter in the third period probably led to a decrease in moisture accumulation in the soil, so a slight increase in precipitation in winter could not compensate for a sufficient amount of moisture in the soil and therefore precipitation in December of the previous year and January of the current year began to limit the radial growth of Scots pine in the third period.

Conclusions. Dendroclimatic studies of middle-aged pine stands in the forest-steppe zone for three periods: 1979-1993, 1974-2008 and 2009-2022 showed a weakening of the stand during the third period, as evidenced by the largest number of significant correlations between the radial growth of pine and climatic factors. It was found that over five years (2018-2022) there was a stabilization of the radial growth of pine, that is, there was no decrease in the trend of radial growth of trees. This indicates a probable adaptation of pine to climate change at this stage.

European experience and prospects for the implementation of environmental certification in Ukraine’s hospitality sector

V. L. Bezsonnyi — 2025-12-30

Purpose. This study analyzes the European experience in implementing environmental certification systems in the hospitality industry (ISO 14001, EU Ecolabel, Green Key) and identifies prospects for their adaptation in Ukraine. The focus is on the role of certification as a tool for sustainable management, ecological safety, and competitiveness of the HoReCa sector.

Methods. The research applies system-analytical, comparative, statistical, and information-entropy approaches.

Results. The data sources include EU Ecolabel, Green Key, and EMAS registers, Eurostat, Hotel Footprinting 2024, and scientific articles вгкштп 2020-2025. Quantitative indicators of energy and water consumption, CO₂ emissions, and certified hospitality facilities in EU countries were evaluated. Over 4200 European hotels hold Green Key certificates and around 900 have EU Ecolabel status, with the highest concentrations in Denmark, France, Spain, and Italy. ISO 14001 implementation reduces energy use by 15–25 %, water consumption by 20 %, and waste generation by up to 30 %. Major barriers for Ukraine include lack of incentives, insufficient environmental awareness, and limited availability of certified auditors. A national initiative “Green Hospitality UA” is proposed, based on EU Ecolabel principles and the Green Deal Policy.

Conclusions. Environmental certification serves as an effective mechanism for ensuring ecological safety and sustainable development of hospitality enterprises. Integrating EU standards into Ukraine’s HoReCa sector will enhance resource efficiency, reduce environmental pressure, and improve its green reputation. Further research should focus on economic modeling of certification effects and integration into national tourism and environmental management policy.

Assessment of compliance with the normative zoning ratio of national nature parks in Ukraine

N. V. Maksymenko — 2025-12-30

Purposes. To assess the compliance of the actual functional zoning of the territories of national nature parks of Ukraine with the current regulatory requirements.

Methods. System analysis, statistics, cartographic modeling.

Results. The world experience of zoning was analyzed, and a comparative analysis of the actual zoning of all 26 national natural parks of Ukraine was carried out with the state building standards DBN B.2.2-12:2019 "Planning and development of territories", according to which each park must have a clearly defined share of the area of the zones: reserve, regulated recreation, stationary recreation and economic zone.. Six groups of parks were identified according to the degree of compliance of zoning with the standards: "Satisfactory" - 6, "Close to satisfactory" - 2, "Less close to satisfactory" - 5, "Far from satisfactory" - 5, "Completely unsatisfactory" - 4. It was not possible to assess zoning in 4 NNPs due to differences in official sources. It was found that the functional zoning of 70% of the national nature parks of Ukraine does not meet the established regulatory requirements, An interactive map of zoning of Ukrainian NNPs was created; recommendations for improving zoning were proposed.

Conclusions. The non-compliance of functional zoning with established regulatory requirements negatively affects the effectiveness of the protection of natural areas. The situation in each park depends on natural conditions, the level of recreational pressure, and the socioeconomic context, but having clear and reasonable zoning is essential to achieving the main goal of preserving ecosystems, ensuring sustainable use of natural resources, and developing ecotourism.

Landscape architectural proposal of the leisure path along the river Gauja in latvia

M. Bihuňová — 2025-12-30

Purpose. To propose the recreational educational trail for the public along the river Gauja.

Methods. Field, landscape and architectural proposal.

Results. The recreational educational trail will lead along riverside and has a start point at an active leisure park ‘’Rāmkalni’’, about 40 km away from the capital of Latvia- Riga and end in Sigulda, about 53 km away from Riga. The planned route includes 8 stops who are currently separated and don’t have a connecting route yet. For the trails and stairs in places of terrain changes, it is planned to use the wood of Larix trees, as it rots much more slowly than other trees. The topics of the informational boards in the planned trail are educational about: the trail, Gauja River, Gauja National park, geology of the cliffs, active leisure park ‘’Tarzāns’’, Sigulda city.

Conclusions. The landscape architectural proposal and design of the equipment is simple, minimalistic and natural shapes, with simple bench and information sign structures, mostly using wood material like wooden beams. Most of the places showcase the beauty of the picturesque Gauja Valley, some of them are also designed for outdoor activities

Spatial organization of agriculture as the basis for administrative and territorial structure based on the principles of sustainable development

S. P. Sonko — 2025-12-30

Purposes. To study the possibility of using data on the dynamics of agroecosystems in the design of administrative-territorial entities (using the example of the Cherkasy region). The main hypothesis of the study is the possibility of scientifically correct “fitting” the production specialization of individual farms into the corresponding agro-landscapes, and subsequently, on this basis, justifying the administrative-territorial structure.

Methods. Cartographic, comparative-geographical, statistical.

Results. Analysis of the distribution of enterprises across the territory of the Cherkasy region confirms their compliance (or non-compliance) with the main natural and economic patterns. Thus, in place of the former 5th forest-steppe and 3rd steppe (2014) along the southern border of the region, the 1st steppe (2024) agricultural region has formed with signs of more pronounced zonal specialization (crops and industries adapted to the arid climate). Over 10 years, the number of farms has increased almost six-fold, which is associated, firstly, with the intensification of land reform implementation and, secondly, with the strengthening of the trend of “integrating” agroecosystems into natural landscapes. Despite the dominance of traditional technologies in the main zonal areas of specialization, a significant number of farms (about 30%) have responded to climate change over the past 10 years (2014-2024) by gradually introducing cover crops into crop rotations to retain moisture in the soil. Thus, most of the farms specializing in grain production are “tied” to the flat plains of the central part of the region. The Dnipro regions of the region are developing specialization with a focus on the consumer (Cherkasy) and significant irrigation resources – open-field vegetables, dairy and beef cattle breeding, and poultry farming. Only in the western regions of the Uman “cluster” is the most comprehensive crop and livestock specialization developing, which is explained by the relative autonomy of this territory. Based on the identification of production types and taking into account landscape diversity, an analysis of agricultural regions in relation to specific landscapes was carried out.

Conclusions. Compared to 2014, the configuration of agricultural areas has changed significantly, which has been fundamentally influenced by climate change. For the Cherkasy region, the main regional centers remain the cores of agroecosystems located in the middle of the four modern administrative districts (Zolotonosha, Cherkasy, Zvenyhorod, and Uman). A more accurate determination of their location, and, most importantly, the periphery of agroecosystems with subsequent refinement of boundaries, will require additional research, both with the use of special statistics and expedition data.

Impact of weed infestation on projective soil cover changes during the sunflower vegetation period

M. V. Shevchenko — 2025-12-30

Weed infestation is one of the key factors influencing the formation of plant cover in agroecosystems. In the context of sunflower cultivation, projective soil cover varies depending on the intensity of weed competition, especially during critical periods of vegetation.

Purpose. To determine the effect of varying levels of weed competition on the dynamics of projective cover in sunflower crops throughout the growing season.

Methods. Field experimentation, laboratory-analytical methods, and statistical analysis.

Results. An increase in the duration of weed competition led to a consistent reduction in plant biometric parameters (height, leaf area), projective crop cover, and yield. The highest yield was recorded under full-season weed control, which served as the benchmark for evaluating other treatments. Even short-term weed competition caused a notable yield reduction. Extending the weed-free period improved growth indicators but did not fully compensate for productivity losses. The first month of vegetation was identified as the critical competition period. Limiting weed infestation during the first 30–45 days after emergence significantly improved plant growth, leaf area development, and projective soil cover. The most effective projective cover and biomass accumulation were observed when weed competition was entirely eliminated during this early phase—crucial for ensuring full crop development. Weed spread in later stages had a less pronounced impact on plant morphology but impeded harvesting and increased the risk of secondary field infestation. In contrast, prolonged weed competition suppressed crop development, reduced leaf area, and decreased yield.

Conclusions. The findings confirm the importance of weed control during critical biomass formation periods to support the soil-protective function of crops and ensure stable production. The proposed approaches can be used to improve sunflower cultivation technologies, taking into account environmental conditions.

Review nematodes in tea cultivation: pathogenesis and plant défense responses

G. Sharma — 2025-12-30

Purpose. To identify the complex relationship between tea plants and important plant-parasitic nematodes, focusing on the severe damage these pests inflict on roots, as well as the sophisticated defense strategies employed by tea plants, particularly their synthesis of protective secondary metabolites to combat nematode attacks

Results. Plant-parasitic nematodes pose a serious economic danger to Camellia sinensis, the world's most important tea crop, resulting in yield losses of 11–55% and up to $1 billion yearly. Stunting, wilting, and decreased tea output are caused by around 80 nematode species that harm roots, including Pratylenchus, Radopholus, Meloidogyne, and Hemicriconemoides. Due to their immobility, tea plants have developed complex defense mechanisms. These include the formation of nematicidal secondary metabolites (polyphenols, alkaloids, terpenoids), systemic signaling pathways triggered by phytohormones (ethylene, jasmonate, and salicylic acid) that activate defense genes, and physical barriers such as lignin and suberin in cell walls. Nematode control is also aided by beneficial soil bacteria.

Conclusions. For sustainable management, it is essential to comprehend relationships. In order to secure the economic future of the tea business, future research should take advantage of natural defences to improve integrated pest control

On the XXI All-Ukrainian scientific Taliyiv readings

A. A. Hrechko — 2025-12-30

On October 31, 2025, the first conference of the newly established structural unit of V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University – the Educational and Scientific Institute of Ecology, Green Energy and Sustainable Development – was held. The event, known as the XXI All-Ukrainian Scientific Taliyiv Readings, was traditionally organized by the Department of Environmental Monitoring and Nature Conservation.

The conference was conducted online via the Zoom platform, which made it possible to involve a wide range of participants from various regions of Ukraine. The traditional plenary presentations focused on the following key themes: the impact of war on environmental components, contemporary issues of rational nature management and nature protection, assessment of the ecological state of environmental components and complexes, as well as scientific and educational challenges of ecology and nature conservation in Ukraine.

Panel discussion held on the DOMANI project - "Development of microcredit ecosystems in Ukraine and Mongolia for a competitive and sustainable green economy".