How to Minimize Land Pollution

An accumulation of waste

Land pollution refers to the contamination of the environment as a result of human actions. One example of such pollution is inefficient waste disposal. Rather than taking the time to place waste in receptacles, or recycling when necessary, humans often litter or dispose of items improperly. Also, sometimes people use methods to control pests that have the potential to cause harm to the surrounding land. As an ecosystem feels the debilitating effects of pollution, the land not only loses its former richness, but the organisms that inhabit the area can be threatened. Simple actions can greatly minimize land pollution.

Things You'll Need

• Trash cans
• Garbage bags
• Recycling bins
• Compost bins
• Shovel

Instructions

1. Dispose of waste properly. Sometimes people do not take the time to throw trash into the wastebasket. Instead, trash is discarded directly on the ground. This not only can result in a blighted appearance, but it can also harm the organisms that inhabit these natural environments. For example, the improper disposal of plastic bags has resulted in death by suffocation for many animals. Therefore, to minimize land pollution, always throw your trash into the trash can, and encourage others to do the same. If you see someone litter, tell him of the negative consequences of his actions, and then ask him to dispose of his trash in the right receptacle.

2. Recycle paper and plastic items. Sometimes the most convenient thing to do is to throw away all trash in the regular trash can. When a product has the potential to be recycled, however, there is no reason to dispose of it with the other trash. Recycling is not only beneficial to the environment, but it also minimizes land pollution because these materials are kept out of landfills.

3. Use items that are biodegradable. One of the most significant contributions to land pollution is the accumulation of waste products, such as plastic, that take many years or decades to decay. Biodegradable products decay at a faster rate in the environment. The decision to use such products will help to minimize land pollution.

4. Do not use pesticides. These chemicals can damage crops as well as the soil in which the crops grow. You can minimize land pollution by using natural pest-control products rather than the harsh chemicals. The natural pest control-products can be found at gardening stores. Another method for pest control is to use insects. Ladybugs, for example, are proficient at controlling the accumulation of unwanted pests within the garden.

5. Make a compost pile. You can either put the compost material into a special compost bin, or you can just make a compost heap. Compost helps to minimize land pollution because it combines organic materials and contributes to the health of the soil. You can create compost by adding materials such as coffee grinds, fruits, vegetables, wood pieces and yard trimmings. By adding a small amount of water to the pile, it will begin to decompose. When the compost turns a deep brown color, it will be ready to place on the soil. You can use a shovel to spread the compost over depleted land.

References

• Drexel University: Land Pollution
• Green Student U: Pollution
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Basic Information