Soil contamination

Soil contamination is the presence of hazardous substances in the soil that can adversely affect human health, the environment, and agricultural productivity. Contaminants can include heavy metals, pesticides, industrial chemicals, petroleum products, and waste materials. Soil contamination can occur through activities such as industrial discharges, agricultural practices, improper waste disposal, and spills. This contamination can lead to the degradation of soil quality, harm to plants and animals, and potential health risks to humans through direct contact or food grown in contaminated soil. Remediation efforts are often necessary to restore contaminated sites.