The effects of soil degradation

Soil degradation is an environmental concern that occurs when land becomes less fit for a specific purpose, like crop production. As the soil loses nutrients, namely phosphorous, nitrogen and potassium, crop yields can decline significantly, compounding the problem of food shortages resulting from a growing global population.

The lack of a strong foundation to grow food and other plants is just one of the problems associated with soil degradation. Here are some additional issues tied to soil degradation.

• Nutritional decline: Food grown in overtaxed soil may have a lower nutrient density. This can lead to micronutrient deficiencies in the human population.