Question

Mention some measures for improving polluted soil.

Answer 1

Some measures for improving polluted soil include:

1. Proper disposal and recycling of solid wastes: Recycling newspapers, waste papers, metallic cans, and other waste articles reduces soil pollution. Burning waste to generate heat and electricity is another helpful method.
2. Reduction in the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides: Applying biofertilizers and following integrated pest management techniques can reduce the dependence on chemical inputs that pollute soil.
3. Adoption of proper sanitation habits: This helps to prevent contamination of the soil with pathogens from insanitary waste disposal.
4. Soil conservation practices: These include afforestation, planting grasses as windbreaks to prevent soil erosion, and retiring badly eroded lands for grass cultivation. The addition of organic manure and rotational grazing can improve soil fertility.
5. Treatment and proper handling of sewage sludge: Digested sewage sludge used as manure should be properly treated to avoid soil pollution.
6. Preventing and controlling land degradation: Measures such as erosion control, checking salinization through proper irrigation and drainage, avoiding deforestation, and careful urban planning help maintain soil health.