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13. JEEP INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC AGRIBUSINESS CONFERENCE - MAK 2026

SOIL DEGRADATION IN THE WORLD, SERBIA AND MONTENEGRO: CAUSES, CONSEQUENCES, AND POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS

Velibor Spalević

Abstracts

This study investigates the primary causes of soil degradation globally, but also in Serbia and Montenegro, as well as their ecological and socio-economic consequences, with a particular emphasis on potential mitigation and remediation strategies. Soil degradation is analysed because of its substantial impact on biodiversity, sustainable development, and agricultural productivity. The research aims to assess the extent to which natural and anthropogenic factors contribute to soil quality decline. The methodology involves a review of relevant scientific and professional literature and the analysis of statistical data from international and national institutions, with a focus on the past two decades and on agricultural and erosion-prone regions. Findings indicate that erosion, unsustainable farming practices, urbanisation, and climate change are principal drivers of soil degradation both globally and in Serbia and Montenegro. The study concludes that adopting sustainable soil management practices, strengthening the legal framework, and enhancing public awareness could substantially mitigate the negative effects of soil degradation. The main limitations concern the availability and timeliness of data for certain regions.

Keywords

Soil degradation, Erosion, Sustainable management, Climate change, Serbia, Montenegro

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