Question

Explain how soil pollution can be prevented.

Answer 1

As part of land degradation, the presence of xenobiotic (human-made) chemicals or other modifications in the natural soil environment is caused by soil contamination or soil pollution. It is usually caused by industrial activity, agricultural chemicals or the disposal of unnecessary waste.

Complete answer:
1. It is important to prevent unnecessary use of chemical fertilizers.
2. Biofertilizers: Biofertilizers should be encouraged in order to increase agricultural yields, since they have no adverse effects on the climate.
3. Biopesticides and fungicides: In order to reduce soil pollution, the use of biopesticides and fungicides should be carried out because they do no harm to the soil.
4. Toxic waste reduction: Industrial toxic waste should be processed before it is released in order to reduce its toxicity.
5. Waste recycling: In order to save property, waste recycling should be achieved.
6. Reuse: Plastic should be minimised in usage as it is one of the main reasons of soil pollution.
7. Organic products: The organic products should be selected over the chemically grown products in order to increase organic production.
8. Reforestation: More plants should be grown because trees prevent the washing away of the top layer of the soil by different kinds of natural agents like wind and water.

Note: Soil contamination, as well as central nervous system depression, headaches, nausea, fatigue, eye irritation and skin rash, may also induce neuromuscular blockade. To be toxic to humans, the soil does not need to be heavily polluted.