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(0)QA International (Firm)
1) Soil
Description
Soil which is the surface layer of earth results from the degradation of rock and is filled with life. A billion organisms exist in one square meter of fertile soil. Small mammals, worms and insects tunnel in the soil and provide air circulation. Microorganisms such as algae, bacteria and fungi decompose organic matter making minerals available to the roots of plants. The soil is a true ecosystem and is easily destroyed by pollution.
Description
Some household waste is biodegradable but most is sent to landfill sites where it is sealed and buried and may release solvents and heavy metals into the soil. Most non-biodegradable soil pollutants come from industry. Lead, mercury and trichloromethylene are among the industrial pollutants. Pesticides used in agriculture and increased nitrogen and phosphates from livestock operations increase soil pollution despite attempts at regulation.