Soil Pollution

Introduction of harmful substances into the environment leads to detrimental effects on the ecosystem, which is known as pollution. It can be caused due to natural events and anthropogenic activities, and disrupts the natural equilibrium. It causes long-lasting effects on the biodiversity of a region.

About Soil Pollution

The contamination of soil with unwanted, harmful substances, mostly through anthropogenic activities, leads to soil pollution. Over the past few decades, with urbanisation, industrialisation, and the overuse of agrochemicals, soil has become the easiest dumping ground for harmful substances. As a result, the quality of the soil degrades, and the pollution gets accumulated in the food chain too.

Causes of Soil Pollution

Improper Agricultural Practices

Usage of excessive chemical fertilisers and pesticides results in contamination of the soil when the chemicals seep into the ground. The contaminated soil harms the organisms residing in the field, and the runoff from the field contaminates other lands and water bodies.

Industrial Activities

Improper disposal of industrial waste is one of the major reasons for soil pollution. Industrial discharges containing heavy metals, hydrocarbons, etc., severely degrade the soil quality when they enter the soil. Chemical leaks from factories and open dumping add more negative effects.
Mining often involves large-scale deforestation, which exposes soil to erosion and contamination. Moreover, mining activities result in the residues of mercury, arsenic, and other elements that infiltrate the soil layers.

Improper Waste Management

Solid wastes like healthcare waste, e-waste, plastics, etc, if not properly managed, can accumulate to release toxins into the soil.
Oil spills from underground storage tanks can also contaminate the soil.
Improperly managed landfills can result in chemical leachates from hazardous substances seeping into the ground.

Natural Processes

pH of the soil can be altered due to acid rain, which depletes essential nutrients in the soil.
Accumulation of perchlorates in trace levels occurs naturally in arid soils and can impact the microbial balance.
Soil quality can also be degraded due to volcanic eruptions and forest fires.

Effects of Soil Pollution

On Ecosystem

Toxic soil kills the beneficial microbes and negatively affects the soil invertebrates, thus disrupting the biodiversity.

On Different Organisms

The pollutants in the soil impact the nutrient absorption and growth of the plants. When animals consume these polluted plants, they might suffer from poisoning, reproductive stress and immune system damage.

On Human Health

Exposure to excess heavy metals and chemicals in contaminated soil can cause fatigue, skin irritation, nausea, and headaches. Consistent exposure results in long-term effects like cancer, respiratory issues, damage to the kidney and liver, neurological disorders and birth defects.

Prevention of Soil Pollution

Sustainable Agricultural Practices

Using biofertilisers, pest control methods, and compost to improve soil quality.
Implementing crop rotation to maintain a balanced nutrient supply.

Responsible Waste Management

Wastes should be segregated and recycled to prevent non-biodegradable wastes from contaminating the soil.
Setting up systems to collect hazardous wastes.
Composting to reduce landfill waste.

Reforestation and Afforestation

Trees stabilise soil structure and restore natural vegetation.
Afforestation improves soil quality and groundwater recharge.
Prevents soil erosion and stabilises the soil structure.

Community Awareness

Strict environmental regulations penalising illegal dumping, excessive discharge of illegal wastes.
Educational programs to raise awareness among the youth.
Encourage people to participate in community services, including waste segregation efforts and organic farming initiatives.
Initiatives taken by local authorities, NGOs, and industries to promote soil conservation.