Prospects For Sustainable Development of Rural Areas of Ukraine Through Organic Production

Abstract

The article substantiates the potential of organic production for sustainable development of rural areas in Ukraine. The author identifies organic farming as a key tool for promoting economic growth, preserving natural resources, and restoring ecosystems, which are essential for addressing environmental, economic, and social challenges. Specifically, it has been proven that organic farming contributes to increased biodiversity, the restoration of soil fertility, and the reduction of water pollution levels, which are crucial for achieving sustainable development goals. The paper proposes a range of promising directions for the development of organic production in Ukraine. It has been determined that rural areas face numerous challenges, including an aging population, youth migration, weak infrastructure, and low levels of investment. Organic production could serve as a means of overcoming these challenges by creating new jobs and increasing the income levels of local communities. The author highlights that the growing demand for organic products, both in Ukraine and abroad, opens new economic opportunities for farmers. The article provides statistical data demonstrating the dynamics of the global organic market's growth and its impact on Ukraine. Specifically, in recent years, there has been an increase in the area of land dedicated to organic farming, although the pace of development remains uneven due to the influence of military actions and other socio-economic factors. The ecological benefits of organic production have been clearly defined. It has been proven that abandoning the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides reduces the negative impact on ecosystems and helps restore natural resources. Organic farming, through the implementation of sustainable agro-technologies, can enhance resilience to climate change and reduce soil erosion. As a result of the research, the necessity of enhancing state support for the organic sector has been identified, particularly through the implementation of subsidy programs and the development of infrastructure for the sale of organic products. An important aspect is raising public awareness about the benefits of organic products, which would stimulate demand and encourage farmers to adopt organic farming methods. Key aspects of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have been analyzed, particularly in the context of the impact of organic production on environmental, economic, and social components. The article thoroughly examines the achievement of indicators set for Goal 2 – «Zero Hunger and Agricultural Development» and Goal 15 – «Life on Land.» In particular, attention is drawn to Indicator 2.3.3, which concerns the share of agricultural land under organic production. Despite challenges caused by economic and military factors, this indicator has shown positive growth dynamics in Ukraine, contributing to food security and increasing the resilience of agro-systems to climate change. Regarding the indicators of Goal 15, the achievement of Indicator 15.3.4 – «Restoration of Degraded Lands and Soils» has been analyzed in detail. It has been proven that the implementation of organic farming contributes to the restoration of soil fertility, the reduction of erosion, and the decrease in the use of chemical substances, positively impacting the state of natural ecosystems. The article presents data showing a gradual increase in the area of land dedicated to organic farming, despite reductions in some regions due to military actions. The article emphasizes that to achieve the target SDG indicators, it is necessary to implement innovative technologies in agriculture and promote the development of organic farming, which has already demonstrated its effectiveness in terms of biodiversity conservation and the restoration of degraded lands. The types of organic products suitable for cultivation in different regions of Ukraine have been developed and proposed, taking into account the climatic and soil characteristics of the territories, as well as the existing experience in rural communities regarding the cultivation of specific agricultural crops. It is argued that the paths to achieving sustainable development indicators through the development of organic production include comprehensive state support measures, educational programs, and the stimulation of cooperation among farmers to ensure the ecological and economic sustainability of rural areas. The conclusion is substantiated that the development of organic production in Ukraine is a crucial element of the sustainable development strategy for rural areas. It contributes to solving a range of social, economic, and environmental problems, ensuring ecological stability and economic development in rural areas.