Soil Pollution Physico -Chemical and Biological Properties of Soil, Pollution Sources, Control Measures, and Impacts
Introduction to Soil Pollution Soil pollution refers to the contamination of soil with toxic chemicals, heavy metals, pesticides, or other pollutants that degrade its quality, affecting plant growth and ecosystem balance. The Hidden Crisis Under Our Feet Soil is a vital, living ecosystem that supports agriculture, filters water, and sustains life. But this critical reservoir is under threat from the buildup of toxic compounds, chemicals, and heavy metals. This soil pollution. 33% of the Earth's soils are estimated to be moderately to highly degraded due to erosion, salinization, acidification, and chemical pollution.
The Major Sources of Contamination Soil pollution isn't from a single source. It's a complex problem driven by our largest industries. This chart shows a typical breakdown of the primary contributors to soil contamination.
Physico -Chemical Properties of Soil • Structure & Texture: Toxic chemicals destroy soil aggregates, leading to compaction, reduced aeration, and poor water infiltration. Inorganic Content: Pollution causes drastic pH changes (acidification) and leaches essential macronutrients like Nitrogen (N) and Potassium (K). Organic Content: Vital soil organic matter (humus) is broken down, reducing the soil's fertility and its ability to retain water.
Biological Collapse Microbial Life: Beneficial bacteria, fungi, and earthworms and insects which are essential for nutrient cycling, are killed off or severely reduced. Enzyme Activity: Critical soil enzymes (like urease and phosphatase) are inhibited, grinding the soil's natural biogeochemical processes to a halt
Soil Health Index: Healthy vs. Polluted This radar chart visualizes the damage. A healthy soil (in blue) maintains a strong, balanced profile across all key attributes, while a polluted soil (in red) shows a catastrophic collapse in every vital function.
Sources of Soil Pollution • Industrial waste and effluents. • Agricultural chemicals (pesticides, fertilizers). • Urban waste and sewage sludge. • Mining and smelting activities. • Oil spills and electronic waste.
Control Measures • Proper waste disposal and treatment. • Use of organic fertilizers and biopesticides. • Soil bioremediation and phytoremediation techniques. • Recycling and reducing industrial waste. • Legislation and environmental awareness programs.
Pollution by Heavy Metals • Common metals: Lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd), Mercury (Hg), Arsenic (As). • Sources: Mining, batteries, paints, and industrial effluents. • Heavy metals are non-biodegradable and persist in soil for decades. Focus: The Persistent Threat of Heavy Metals Among the most dangerous pollutants are heavy metals. They are non-degradable, persist in the soil for decades, and pose a direct threat to human and animal health through the food chain.
Impact on Humans and Animals • Bioaccumulation in food chain leads to health hazards. • Causes neurological, renal, and skeletal disorders. • Affects livestock through contaminated feed and water. • Reduces crop yield and soil fertility.