When it comes to knowing the meaning of the term soil pollution, it is necessary, first of all, to discover the etymological origin of the two main words that give it shape:
-Pollution derives from the Latin "contaminatio", which, in turn, derives from the verb "contaminare" which can be translated as "dirty" or "corrupt".
-Suelo also has its origin in Latin. In his case, exactly in the word "solum."
When we mention the idea of contamination , we are referring to the act and result of contaminating : generating, through physical or chemical agents, a harmful alteration in the natural or normal characteristics of something.
There are different types of pollution, such as environmental pollution , air pollution and water pollution . In this case we are going to focus on soil contamination : the degradation of the properties of a piece of land .
When the soil is contaminated, it can no longer be used by humans for cultivation . But in addition, the soil cannot fulfill its natural functions due to the modification of its conditions.
Soil contamination can occur due to the dumping of chemical substances (such as pesticides , for example), the accumulation of radioactive substances or sewage leaks , to name a few possibilities. It is important to keep in mind that the health risk transcends direct contact with contaminated soil, since contamination can even reach groundwater .
Atomic tests, so-called agricultural technology and even the dumping of plastics are other causes that can cause soil contamination. Not forgetting the so-called terrestrial compaction.
Among the main consequences of the aforementioned pollution, in addition to the damage it causes to health, are some such as these:
-There is a direct and forceful attack against the vegetation, which will degrade because the soil is no longer suitable.
-The previous consequence will also mean that animal species will be seriously harmed. Hence, not only will the food chain be significantly altered, but many species may become seriously affected.
-It directly affects the landscape, which will degrade in a clear and forceful way.
-The possibility of drinking water exists is made difficult.
Suppose an edible plant grows in contaminated soil. When people and animals ingest these plants, harmful substances can enter their bodies. In this way, soil contamination can cause poisoning , whether mild or serious.
To protect the health of individuals and the subsistence of fauna and flora, therefore, it is essential that governments protect soils and control their condition . Contaminated soils affect the quality of life and can compromise the future of a population.
In order to avoid soil contamination and these aforementioned adverse consequences, it is necessary that, in addition to the actions of governments and administrations, other solutions such as recycling are chosen. Many of the items that end up contaminating the soil, such as bottles or bags, can have a new useful life.