Agricultural fertilizer developments and water quality risks in Moldova

New Design Composite (NDC) has introduced two new liquid UAN fertilizer formulas: UAN 32% N and UAN 28% N + 5% S. These products aim to provide farmers with greater control over nutrient dosage and timing, allowing for more precise application based on specific crop needs and developmental stages.

Separately, environmental concerns have been raised regarding the impact of agricultural practices on the Dniester River basin. Data from UNDP Moldova indicates that 86.3% of water bodies in the Republic of Moldova are considered at risk due to agricultural activities. In 2023, significant quantities of nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium fertilizers were utilized in the country.

Runoff from fertilizers and pesticides during rainfall, as well as nitrate infiltration into groundwater, can degrade water quality and cause excessive algae growth. To mitigate these effects, UNDP and Sweden are supporting Moldova in developing modern water resource management systems and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.