Loss of Organic Carbon
The loss of organic carbon is the decrease in organic carbon in the ground. This substance is a vital part of the make up of soil. It contributes to the fertility of the soil, its water-holding ability, and the general health. Soil carbon comes from animal and plant residues that are broken down by the organisms in the soil.
Loss of organic carbon can be caused by a number of factors, such as:
- Agricultural Processes- Cropping systems, tillage and synthetic fertilisers, can lower the levels of soil organic carbon by changing soil food webs and reducing inputs of organic substances.
Loss of soil organic carbon can negatively impact soil health.
- Reduction in fertility – Organic carbon is a key component in soil fertility. It provides essential nutrients to plants.
- Reduced soil water-holding capability – Organic carbon is important for soil hydration, which is vital for plant health.
- A rise in greenhouse gas emissions – soil carbon is a significant source of carbon. Losing soil carbon can lead to releasing CO2 and other harmful gases into the atmosphere. This contributes to global warming.
Soil Contamination
Soil contamination is the introduction of harmful substances to soil, which can be harmful to plants, animals and humans. Soil contamination is caused by a number of different sources, such as:
- Agricultural Methods – Pesticide usage and fertilisers in this industry can cause soil contamination. For Remediation Contractors, go to https://soilfix.co.uk/services/soil-and-groundwater-remediation
- Industrial Actions – Actions like mining and manufacturing can emit poisonous chemicals into the soil.
- Reduction in Plant Growth – Contamination in soil can contain dangerous chemicals that can hurt plants or kill them, reducing productivity.