We often hear environmentalists and people in general talk about issues like ozone degradation, air pollution, plastic pollution, water scarcity and deforestation. No doubt, all these problems are massive, and they do exist.
But are we neglecting something by focusing solely on these problems?
If studies are to be believed, yes we are!
Look closer, underneath your feet, that layer of topsoil—it’s eroding, and it’s eroding fast!
Soil Erosion Not Just a Problem, But a Crisis!
Soil erosion is already a problem. Soon it will become a massive problem. It’s a crisis that’s building up and it’s not getting the attention it deserves in either the public podiums or expert discussions.
How big of a problem is it?
The severity of soil erosion crisis can be gauged from the fact that half the “planet’s” topsoil has been lost in the last 150 years.
And we are to blame for it.
Our construction activities, our poor stormwater management practices and our reckless attitude towards the preservation of nature – all of it is to blame.
Why this negligence?
It’s very hard to say something for definite, but one of the possible reasons could be that we (majority of us) are not even aware of the complete dangers of soil erosion.
Many people think soil erosion only costs us in terms of land infertility, which even though is a huge concern, it still doesn’t come across as something as serious to let’s say the problem of water scarcity.
When was the last time you actually thought about it – be honest?
But the effects of soil erosion go beyond the loss of fertile land.
- Excessive soil erosion cause landslides and mudslides.
- Excessive soil erosion lead to increased sedimentation in local watersheds that kill underwater plants and animals.
- Excessive soil erosion contributes to increased carbon emissions (Did you know that?).
It’s high time people start talking about soil erosion. And not only talk about it, but also do something on their part to reduce soil erosion.
Like for instance, homeowners can install soil sediment control products in their backyards and around their stormwater drains to prevent runoffs from contaminating local water bodies.
Builders and construction engineers can install erosion control blankets on the construction site to protect soil from getting washed off.
And there are many other things we can do and encourage others as well.
So, will you be playing your role in saving the planet’s skin?
A BONUS read:Why Synthetic Erosion Control Blankets Do More Harm Than Good