permaculture

Workshop Module 2: Natural Patterns and Permaculture Design 77

Effects of pollutants on soil and plants

The following negative effects of pollutants can occur in soil.

• Even in small amounts pollutants can be harmful by changing the natural
  chemical and pH balance of soil – the living environment of many plants and
  creatures.


• Pollutants in the soil are absorbed by plants, bacteria, microscopic creatures,
  and insects, which can harm their growth.


• Over time, the soil will become increasingly polluted, which can create “dead”
  soil where no life can exist. The result is that the land is less productive for any
  type of crop.


• Beneficial insects that improve the soil, pollinate plants, and eat pests can also
  be killed.


• If pollutant levels are high in the soil this can weaken, damage, or even kill
  plants.


• Pollutants can also enter and build up in the plants themselves which is
  dangerous for anyone or anything that consumes these polluted plants.

Effects of pollutants on people and animals

People and animals depend on water and food from plants and animals. Pollutants are
directly passed on to people and animals in many ways:

• By eating food (plants and animals) that contains pollutants.


• By breathing air that contains pollutants.


• By consuming or bathing in water that contains pollutants.


• These pollutants will cause sickness and in some cases even serious illness or
  death.