From time immemorial, land resources have been considered one of the most important types of we alth. However, there is currently a significant load on the soil cover. The material below will consider one of the most important problems of our time: land pollution.
Main reasons
Soil pollution and depletion is currently a specific type of land degradation. There are two main reasons for such negative changes. The first is natural. The composition and structure of the soil can change as a result of global natural phenomena. For example, due to the movement of lithospheric plates, the constant impact of significant air masses or water elements. In connection with all the above causes of natural destruction, the solid shell of the Earth is gradually changing its appearance. As a second factor, which results in soil pollution and depletion, anthropogenic impact can be called. It is currently doing the most damage. Let's take a closer look at this destructive factor.
Human activity as a cause of soil degradation
Negative anthropogenic impact often occurs as a result of agricultural activities, the operation of large industrial facilities, the construction of buildings and structures, transport links, as well as domestic needs and the needs of mankind. All of the above are the causes of negative processes called "Soil pollution and depletion". Among the consequences of the impact on land resources of the anthropogenic factor are the following: erosion, acidification, destruction of the structure and change in composition, degradation of the mineral base, waterlogging or, conversely, desiccation, dehumification, and so on.
Agriculture
Perhaps, it is this type of anthropogenic activity that can be considered the key to the question of what causes soil pollution and depletion. The causes of such processes are often interconnected. For example, first comes the intensive development of land. As a result, deflation develops. In turn, plowing is able to activate water erosion processes. Even additional irrigation is considered a negative impact factor, since it is it that causes salinization of land resources. In addition, soil pollution and depletion can occur due to the application of organic and mineral fertilizers, unsystematic grazing of farm animals, destruction of vegetation cover, and so on.
Chemical pollution
On soilThe resources of the planet are significantly influenced by industry and transport. It is these two directions in the development of human activity that lead to the pollution of the earth with all kinds of chemical elements and compounds. Heavy metals, oil products and other complex organic substances are considered to be especially dangerous. The appearance of all of the above compounds in the environment is associated with the work of industrial enterprises and internal combustion engines, which are installed in most vehicles.
Soil pollution and depletion: ways to solve the problem
Of course, initially it is necessary that each person understands the measure of his responsibility for a favorable environmental situation on the planet. In addition, it is necessary even at the legislative level to establish restrictions on the conduct of economic activities. An example of such activities can be considered an increase in green spaces, as well as the establishment of control and systematic checks on the rational use of land.
