The soil is a critical element and an integral part of the natural environment. It is used for several purposes, including construction, cultivation, production, etc. However, this essential element can be infected by pollution, contaminating it and limiting its usability. Many factors cause soil contamination, but it is most instigated by human activities. Perhaps, we are too concerned with preventing air and water pollution that we often neglect the importance of protecting the soil.
Indeed, contaminated soils can be treated to restore their potency. However, it is almost impossible to return it to the initial state and quality. Hence, it is better to prevent these contaminations to ensure the soil retains its strength and nutrients. This article will highlight the causes of soil contamination and the best ways to prevent them. Read on for more information.
Common Soil Contaminants
Soil contamination is a form of soil degradation caused by harmful chemicals and other substances that affect the soil. Many contaminants have been discovered over the years, but the most significant includes;
- Agricultural Chemicals: Of course, chemicals used for agricultural purposes like crop and animal farming do not seem harmful. However, these inorganic substances like fertilizers, pesticides, fungicides, and herbicides often cause much damage to soils and expose them to composition. This is because most of these chemicals are not biodegradable and do not decompose quickly.
- Industrial Byproducts: Wastes and byproducts from industries often act upon the soil directly, and they are among the leading cause of pollution. They can be in solid, liquid, or gaseous forms, but they often take a toll on the soil if they are not adequately subdued.
- Urban Wastes: Poor domestic waste disposal has never been encouraged because of how it exposes the environment to dangers. You already know that urban waste can cause air and water pollution. But you may not know they are equally capable of dissolving into the soil to affect the quality and ph.
How to Prevent Soil Contamination
Preventing soil pollution is the best way to preserve soil quality and ensure lands retain their usability. However, this may not be an easy task, considering how our everyday activities fuel these pollutions. Here are some tips to help prevent soil contamination and ensure a sustainable environment.
- Use Manure: Manures are organic substances that help boost plant growth. They perform similarly with farm chemicals like fertilizers. But unlike their inorganic counterparts, they do not pose any threat to the soil or environment.
- Use Recyclable Materials: Recyclable materials are those materials that can be reused or reintegrated for the manufacturing of other items. Since poor waste disposal is the leading cause of pollution, using these recyclables may be the best solution to prevent air, water, and soil contamination.
- Afforestation: This is the process of planting more trees to build a more sustainable environment. This process can help prevent land pollution such as erosions and flood effects.
Conclusion
Land contamination is not a very favorable condition, and it can cost us valuable resources. But thankfully, there are several treatments for contaminated soils, and you can adopt any of the remediation methods for this purpose. However, please avoid this condition, and the best ways to prevent soil pollution have been highlighted in this article.
If your land has become polluted and contaminated as a result of a chemical spill, contact a spill containment specialist who can provide you with crucial environmental management services.
