Complications Of Soil Pollution

Soil pollution can be defined as the presence of toxic chemicals (pollutants or contaminants) or harmful substances in soil, which occur in high enough concentrations to be a risk to the soil; those organisms living in it; to human health and/or the ecosystem. Soil pollution is typically caused by agricultural chemicals; industrial activities; or incorrect waste disposal etc. Soil pollution can occur even when contaminant levels in soil are not of risk, if natural levels are exceeded. Soil pollution can also occur as a result of radioactive pollutants and biological agents. Industrial pollutants are mostly discharged from pulp and paper mills; oil refineries; sugar factories; tanneries; chemical fertilizers; pesticides; mineral and coal mining

Toxic dust is another repercussion created by soil pollution. This will pollute the environment and have serious health implications, in relation to people and animals. Other negative impacts include chemistry change (in soil) which can occur as a result of the existence of harmful chemicals, even if present at low concentrations. This has the ability to change the metabolism of micro organisms and arthropods which reside within the soil. This then eradicates a portion of the food chain, which can have serious consequences for consumer and/or predator species. DDT materials, for example, have resulted in the eggs of many Avian species having weakened shells. This has resulted in increased chick mortality, as well as increased extinction risk. Fatality of many soil organisms, such as earthworms, can have a dramatic effect on soil structure. Soil pollution, ad the consequences thereof, may also have adverse effects on human communities. Soil pollution, which may infiltrate groundwater acquifers and which is eventually consumed by humans, can have a host of negative impacts on health. One’s health can also be affected by being in contact with soil, and inhalation of vaporized contaminants may occur. Chronic exposure to lead, as well as other metals (like chromium and solvents); some pesticides; herbicides and petroleum increases one’s susceptibility to Cancer. Such exposure can also cause congenital disorders, as well as other health conditions, over the long-term. When exposed to soil which has high dosages of benzene in it, one may be susceptible to illnesses such as leukemia. Incidences of Kidney damage and diseases which are irreversible can also occur as a consequence of being exposed to soils containing Mercury and