How Severely Do Oil Spills Affect Soil Health?

Oil is a pollutant that can seriously compromise the health of soil. When soil becomes contaminated with oil, it is usually rendered less useful to human beings, and can even be dangerous.

Loss of Oxygen

According to a report by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, oil contamination reduces oxygen levels in soil. This can result in the death of native plants, and depending upon the size of the spill, can damage entire ecosystems.

Loss of Fertility

Oil contamination also reduces the fertility of arable land, according to the United Nations. This can result in a loss of crops for farming communities.

Pollution of Groundwater

Groundwater is water that is just below the surface of the soil. When soil becomes contaminated with oil, so does groundwater. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, this can be serious if the groundwater is consumed by human beings or animals.

Longevity of Effects

Depending on soil conditions, the effects of an oil spill can last for years. According to Temple University professor Michael C. Boufadel, many of the gravel beaches in Alaska have yet to fully recover from the Exxon Valdez oil spill that occurred more than 20 years ago.

Possible Uses

Soil that is heavily polluted with oil is considered to be solid waste, but it still has possible uses. For instance, oil-contaminated soil is sometimes used in construction as an ingredient in the manufacture of asphalt and brick.

References

• United States Geological Survey: Groundwater Contamination by Crude Oil Near Bemidji, Minnesota
• Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources: Why and How to Protect Your Home from Fuel Oil Spills
• "U.S. News and World Report;" Gravel Beaches Trapping Oil from 1989 Exxon Spill; Mary Pemberton; January 2010
• United Nations Department of Social and Economic Affairs: The Effects of Oil
• University of Maine: Beneficial Uses of Solid Waste