The utilization of chemicals has gone up tremendously since technology provided us with modern pesticides and fertilizers. Some of the main soil pollution effects are as discussed below: More than 70% of the soil pollutants are carcinogenic in nature, intensifying the chances of developing cancer in the humans exposed to the polluted soils. Effects on Plants and Animals. These diseases could also prove to be quite fatal. Slightly contaminated soil can harm humans through bioaccumulation. Soil pollution can also cause neuromuscular blockage as well as depression of the central nervous system, headaches, nausea, fatigue, eye irritation and skin rash. The pollution of soil changes the complete ecosystem be it microorganisms, plants, animals or humans. Salts occur naturally in the soil. Since this water is stored beneath the layers of the soil, the toxins in the soil could easily percolate slowly and steadily into the water table. Soil pollution causes perilous effects on our environment and leads to several health hazards. Humans are also affected in numerous ways either directly or indirectly. In these landfills, these plastics and other materials decompose slowly and release toxic materials into the soil. The toxic chemicals present in the soil can decrease soil fertility and therefore decrease in the soil yield. It also ensures the maintenance of the underground water table. Crops and plants that are grown on polluted soil absorb much of the pollution and then pass these on to us. Pesticides and other chemicals can get trapped in soil, polluting streams and rivers as the soil breaks apart. (And Which Foods Do They Actually Like), How Do Birds Mate? Kids are more prone to get affected due to this than the adults. Even the plant… This is because our bodies are full of toxins and chemicals which are now seeping into the land and causing pollution of soil. Other effects of soil pollution include: Loss of soil nutrients, which renders the soil unfit for agriculture Impacts the natural flora and fauna residing in the soil Degrades vegetation due … Whether it is iron ore or coal, the by-products are contaminated, and they are not disposed of in a manner that cannot be considered safe. All Rights Reserved . When plants grow in polluted soil, the yield is negatively impacted in terms of both quantity and quality. The soil is an important habitat and is the house of different type of microorganisms, animals, reptiles, mammals, birds, and insects. In the case of contaminants which occur naturally in soil, even when their levels are not high enough to pose a risk, soil pollution is still said to occur if the levels of the contaminants in soil exceed the levels that should naturally be present.”. The roots of the plants bind the soil particles together and even capture good microorganisms in the soil. The chemicals present in the fuel deteriorates the quality of soil and make them unsuitable for cultivation. As the world becomes more industrialized, the long term effects of soil pollution are becoming more of a problem all over the world. Soil Pollution. The grain grown in these soils is often polluted with heavy metals. Pollutants mix in soil and make it toxic and the chemical changes in the natural form of the soil begin to take place. Some chemical fertilizers and pesticides can be absorbed by the plants and animals we consume, so they would also affect our body’s health. SOIL POLLUTION Soil pollution, its effects on our future and what we can do to reduce it. Acid rain is caused when pollutants present in the air mix up with the rain and fall back on the ground. If people are aware, they will help even subconsciously. Acidification, diminished soil fertility, and death of soil organisms in the soil can lead to changes in soil structure. We tend to look skywards when talking about pollution, but this problem is not confined to our skies. Sometimes we fail to understand it. In fact, it can sicken the livestock to a considerable extent and cause food poisoning over a long period of time. Thus, soil pollution can negatively impact the lives of the living organisms and can result in the gradual death of many organisms. It could also destroy the good microorganisms in the soil. Since the plants can not naturally get rid of these contaminants, they accumulate in the plants system, causing an ever increasing amount of pollution. Groundwater Pollution Effects Soil pollutants eventually leach their way through the soil and into groundwater. Most industries are dependent on extracting minerals from the Earth. (And Ways to Dispose of), Are Keys Recyclable? (And How To Keep Them Away). If the soil is contaminated, the plants cultivated on this soil are also contaminated. Through the food chain, this also has adverse effects on humans. At present, plastic forms a significant portion of the generated wastes. Soil erosion is the weathering away of topsoil caused by water, wind or tillage. (And Ways to Reuse Old Bottles), 13 Amazing Plants That Do Not Need Drainage Holes, Do Deer Eat Petunias? Awareness programs could be designed so that people understand soil pollution better. They are full of chemicals that are not produced in nature and cannot be broken down by it. Soil pollution effects may vary based on age, general health status and other factors, such as the type of pollutant or contaminant inhaled or ingested. The excess of chemical fertilizers could pollute the soil in several ways. In some parts of the world, heavily polluted soils with metals and chemicals such as lead, asbestos, and sulfur are considered unfavorable for crop production and cannot be used to grow crops. Soil influences almost all aspects of our daily lives. It affects every aspect of the environment and every organism from the earthworm to humans. Hence, when there is overuse of fertilizer chemicals or lands are degraded through chemical and solid waste dumping, the upper layer of the soil is damaged, causing soil pollution.The effects of agricultural, healthcare, and chemical wastes are the principal land pollution aspects causing soil pollution. It happens when people consume crop produce that is grown in the polluted soils or when they consume animal products that eat plants from polluted soils. The ecological balance is lost completely. Humans can be affected by soil pollution through the inhalation of gases emitted from soils moving upward, or through the inhalation of matter that is disturbed and transported by the wind because of the various human activities on the ground. Often it is achieved at the cost of the health of the soil. The ecological balance of any system gets affected due to the widespread contamination of the soil. The fertility of the soil slowly diminishes, making land unsuitable for agriculture and any local vegetation to survive. ~ Foul smell due to industrial chemicals and gases might result in headaches, fatigue, nausea, etc., in many people. The pollution of soil is a common thing these days, and it happens due to the presence of man-made elements. Long term effects of soil pollution . It is harmless and completely organic. Excessive use of pesticides or fertilisers in agri… Soil Pollution Compromises the Health of Crop and Plants. (And Which Foods to Avoid), Can Squirrels Eat Raisins? Unlike deserts, which are suitable for its native vegetation, such land cannot support most forms of life. Thus, soil pollution can have several negative effects on human health. The prime reason for soil pollution is the addition of harmful chemicals artificially, especially while farming. Since soil pollution is not a lone standing entity, its effects are carried over as water pollution and air pollution. 1. Humans can be affected indirectly due to bioaccumulation or food poisoning. Long-term exposure to benzene and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), for instance, is linked to the development of leukemia and liver cancer respectively. The main reason why the soil becomes contaminated is due to the presence of man-made waste. Even the sewer system ends at the landfill, where the biological waste pollutes the soil and water. One of the major causes of soil pollution is soil erosion that is caused due to deforestation. As a result, the industrial waste lingers in the soil surface for a long time and makes it unsuitable for use. Over time, abusive farming and agricultural tilling processes can result in nutrient degradation -- the decline in soil quality. This typ… We must also remember that this is the water that is available for consumption and usage through wells and tube wells. Even slightly contaminated soil can be harmful to human health. The soil pollution effects are also for humans due to the inhalation of gases emitted from soil moving upward. Some of the detrimental effects of soil pollution are described below. The side effects of soil pollution include severe depletion of certain types of calcium, methane, nitrogen, sulphur, iron, copper, nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus in the soil; destruction of some useful plants and organisms which give moisture to the soil; toxic grains, vegetables and fruit that pose health problems to humans and alkalinity in the soil. Effects of Soil Pollution. Once the soil is contaminated with chemicals and heavy metals or degraded due to human activities such as mining, its fertility depreciates and might even be lost entirely. Every cause is linked with another. This is because they play in grounds and come in contact with the soil more. Her passion for science education drove her to start EarthEclipse with the sole objective of finding and sharing fun and interesting science facts. (And What to Do With Old Junk Mail), Can You Recycle Lighters? The soil pollution causes large tracts of land to become hazardous to health. Animals who then eat those plants, also humans, ingest all of the pollutants that accumulated in that pl… Fungi and bacteria found in the soil that bind it together begin to decline, which creates an additional problem of soil erosion. Poisoning of the Underground Water Table, 2. As a result of this, we sometimes fail to understand the effect that soil pollution has on our daily lives. Not only that, but the runoffs from such soils also cause water pollution as well. Listed below are a few things that could help in reducing soil pollution. It could mess with the pH levels of the soil. Effects of Soil Pollution. This leads to migration of the larger animals and predators to other regions to find food supply, gradually leading to a reduction in wildlife and extinction. If the plants die, then it means animals dependent on the plants will also die. Earth Eclipse. → It can cause climate changes in environment. Soil pollution happens when these chemicals adhere to the soil, either from being directly spilled onto the soil or through contact with soil that has already been contaminated. Healthy soil is essential to the growth of good quality crops and other plants. As a result of this, we sometimes fail to understand the effect that soil pollution has on our daily lives. The long term effects of soil po llution are . Polluted soil means stunted crops or even toxic underground water table. Increased soil salinity makes it difficult for plants to absorb soil moisture and reduces groundwater quality. Consequently, it leads to enormous economic losses. (And Ways To Protect Peonies), Do Deer Eat Roses? The contaminated soil is then used to produce fruits and vegetables, which lacks quality nutrients and may contain some poisonous substance to cause serious health problems in people consuming them. It is a complex problem, and thus, it requires everyone, from an individual to the government, to work in complete unison. When she is not writing, she loves watching sci-fi movies on Netflix. Besides, the unpleasant smell causes inconvenience to other people. These toxic substances are very harmful to the health of the soil and are a major source of soil pollution. To prevent this from happening, reforestation of a deforested area should be promoted. (And 5 Ways to Dispose of), Is Junk Mail Recyclable? Causes neuromuscular blockage as well as depression of the central nervous system. Crops and plants grown on polluted soils can accumulate poison to an extent deemed unfit for human consumption. Thus, soil pollu… The use of plants that can remove the pollutants from the soil is being encouraged. Diseases like arsenic poisoning, food poisoning and others are caused due to the prolonged consumption of this toxic underground water. Some of the adverse effects are as follows: Plants will not be able to adapt to sudden changes occurring in the soil. Thus using chemical fertilizers is like a double-edged sword. The plants that feed us grow in soil, and keeping it healthy is essential to maintaining a beautiful planet. The polluted water could dissolve away some of the essential nutrients found in soil and change the structure of the soil. → It can effect on agriculture crops. This pollutes local water sources, including wells and springs, making the water dangerous to drink and for local wildlife and plants. (And How to Keep Them Away), Do Deer Eat Peonies? For example, high concentrations of lead or mercury in the soil can endanger the functionality of kidneys and liver. Learn more about its causes, effects and solutions. Soil is an important part to maintain the natural environment of the ecosystem. Soil is the home of a huge number of organisms. Oil leaks can happen during the storage and transport of chemicals. #environmental sustainability #society #nature. This is because soil microorganisms help in breaking down organic matter that promotes soil structure regarding vitality and water penetration as well as retention. The emission of toxic and foul gases from landfills pollutes the environment and causes serious effects on the health of some people. The increase in soil salinity, salinization, is an effect of salt accumulation in the soil. 25+ Phenomenal Ways To Stop Deforestation and Protect Our Planet, 71+ Shocking Facts About Pollution That are Seriously Eye-opening, 6. (Albinism), Can Squirrels Eat Almonds? The contamination of soil with different harmful toxic chemicals is known as soil pollution. How do Rainbows Form? Soil pollution also has an impact on the quality of water and air. It is natural that with the ever-growing population, the humankind needs more and more space to expand their civilization. Every human produces a certain amount of personal waste products by way of urine and feces. Industries have been given regulations for the disposal of hazardous waste, which aims at minimizing the area that becomes polluted. Industrial activity has been the biggest contributor to the problem in the last century, especially since the amount of mining and manufacturing has increased. In order to ensure that a problem like soil pollution is solved, it is essential that every individual must get involved. (And Do They Mate With Other Species). The waste produced from nature itself, such as dead plants, carcasses of animals and rotten fruits and vegetables only adds to the fertility of the soil. Soil acidification as a consequence of pollution also leaches away essential natural minerals like magnesium and calcium. According to China’s agricultural sector, for instance, about 12 million tons of polluted grains are subjected to disposal on an annual basis, costing Chinese farmers economic losses of up to 2.6 billion U.S. dollars. Also, afforestation should be promoted in the barren lands. Crops and plants grown in these regions combined with other soil pollutant effects are highly poisonous and can cause severe health disorders when consumed. She loves writing on topics related to space, environment, chemistry, biology, geology and geography. As a result, they seep into the ground after they mix with water and slowly reduce the fertility of the soil. Or through … It is essential that we all realize how important soil is for us. Some major effects of soil pollution are listed below. → soil pollution can effect on our human health such as like eg : Skin diseases , T.B , Asthama etc. When these changes occur, beneficial soil bacteria, soil microorganisms, soil nutrients, and soil chemical processes begin to deteriorate to an extent where they diminish soil fertility. Chemical fertilizers do more harm than good. Some of the causes of soil pollution are given below: 1. These steps not only reduce waste generation but also ensure that soil pollution is reduced. Most plants are unable to adapt when the chemistry of the soil changes so radically in a short period of time. Mercury can increase the risk of kidney damage; cyclodienes can lead to liver toxicity. contamination. Reforestation and Afforestation Should be Promoted, Causes and Effects of Noise Pollution on Humans and Animals, What is Flora and Fauna: Importance and Various Examples, contaminants which occur naturally in soil, Can You Recycle Frying Pans? Furthermore, acidic conditions hinder soil ability to cushion changes in the soil PH, leading to the death of plants due to unfavorable conditions. Considering how soil is the reason we are able to sustain ourselves, the contamination of it has major consequences on our health. Besides, when plants take up the soil contaminants, they pass them up the food chain, endangering the health of animals and humans. This exposes the soil to various agents of erosion. Human health problems and alkalinity in the soil are included. The pollution effect of microplastic particles is also related to many other factors, such as soil structure and composition, climate and environmental factors. The most evident and crucial element of the soil is its fertility. Finally, a growing cause for concern is how we dispose of our waste. Children are even more susceptible to the harms of soil pollution since they spend most of their time playing in close contact with the soil. In addition to endangering human health, soil pollution can also cause economic damage 2. The earlier we realize, the better we will be able to solve the problem of soil pollution. Large tracts of land become barren; unable to support any life on it. Effects of soil pollution: Causes cancers including leukemia. Soil loses its natural vitality and balance of elements, degrading its quality and lending it … The death of many soil organisms (e.g., earthworms) in the soil can lead to alteration in soil structure. For example, in some parts of China, soil that is polluted with heavy metals is nevertheless used to grow grain. It adds essential nutrients to the soil and restores the health of the soil. Another adverse effect of land pollution is the contamination of soil. Natural manure is one of the best sources of nutrients for the soil. 3. This could explain the sudden surge in small and terminal illnesses. Soil pollutants can also cause skin diseases, muscular blockage, and central nervous system disorders. Soil pollution also leads to the poisoning of the underground water table. The soil loses its productivity and the ability to grow plants in it. Some major effects of soil pollution are listed below. The harmful chemicals and heavy metals in the soil decrease soil microbial and chemical activity. (And 6 Clever Ways to Reuse Old Keys), Can You Recycle Shampoo Bottles? Polluted soil can harm humans by making contact with the soil or consuming vegetation produce from contaminated soils. The chemical elements can also denature active enzymes that revitalize healthy soil activities. There are various effects of soil pollution that affect the entire ecosystem. It has many different names, such as dirt, mud, and ground. Damaging the upper layer of soil through the use of fertilizer and pesticides in agriculture, the contaminated land can lose its fertility and may no longer be used for agricultural purposes in the long run. Soil pollution may cause a variety of health problems, starting with headaches, nausea, fatigue, skin rash, eye irritation and potentially resulting in more serious conditions like neuromuscular blockage, kidney and liver damage and various forms of cancer. Harm on Human Beings: Contaminating soil bounces again its effect on human fitness, which is more dangerous. SOIL POLLUTION : - → The major cause of soil pollution is land degradation. Soil pollution is categorized under land pollution. Effect on Health of Humans Such attempts at cleaning up the environment require plenty of time and resources to be pitched in. The contamination or degradation of soils impacts heavily on the health of plants. This can be seen at most of the fuel stations. (And Can They Choke on Raisins), Can Squirrels Eat Popcorn? (And Process of Formation), Causes and Effects of Marine Habitat Loss, 35+ Outstanding Facts About the Planet Earth, Advantages and Importance of Reforestation, Five Different Atmospheric Layers of the Earth, Causes and Effects of Ozone Layer Depletion, Extraordinary Ways to Protect Coral Reefs, Causes and Effects to Environmental Pollution, Causes and Effects of Ocean Acidification. ~ Creation of toxic dust is another potential effect of soil pollution. It also plays a key role in the distribution of the plants. Pinpointing at one particular cause is quite difficult. Suitable for its native vegetation, such as dirt, mud, and gas caused man-made... Some people Eat Raisins humankind needs more and more space to expand their civilization can Choke. Chemicals can get trapped in soil, polluting streams and rivers as the.! The land and soil can be affected by contaminated soils a beautiful.. 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