Soil pollution can be defined as the introduction of undesirable substances into the soil that adversely affect its physical, chemical and biological properties.
Source of Soil Contamination
Cause of Soil pollution or damage
a) Soil erosion: the removal or transfer of topsoil from one place to another is known as soil erosion, it is a natural process. But erosion is growing through human activities such as mining, construction, new agricultural land, deforestation, overgrazing etc. As a result of erosion, the soil is reduced and soil erosion also reduces the water holding capacity of the soil.
b) Excessive use of fertilizers: Essential micronutrients such as N, P, K are given to chemical fertilizers to increase yield or product. A microorganism present in the soil converts nitrogen into nitrate ions; the entry of food chains from the soil disrupts the chemical process.
c) Acid rain: Acid rain increases soil acidity which reduces crop yields.
d) Water salt: Due to over-irrigation, the absorption of soluble salt increases in the soil, and the productivity and quality of the soil decreases. These salts are deposited on top and the distribution of oxygen and groundwater does not occur so the plant growth slows down.
e) Industrial waste: various pollutants present in the environment from industrial waste. Emissions from the chemical industry, fertilizer and pharmaceutical companies are highly polluting.
Effect of Soil Contamination
i) Salt and water management reduces soil fertility and yields.
ii) Toxic chemicals in the soil also affect plant growth and human health.
iii) Soil pollution pollutes groundwater.
Control measures to prevent soil contamination
i) Soil erosion must be prevented by proper planting of trees.
ii) Industrial and domestic waste must be treated before disposal.
iii) Replace synthetic fertilizer.
iv) Toxic and non-toxic substances must be prevented.
v) Recycling of waste.
vi) Public Awareness.
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