Earthworm and its role in the Detoxification of soil Pollutants

Impact of Earthworms in Mitigating Soil Pollution

Abstract

Pollution of the soil is a serious issue for the planet. Soil pollution from organic contaminantsand heavy metals, among others, has increased dramatically as industrialisation has progressed rapidly.A variety of pollutants released into the environment are absorbed by the soil. Sources of heavy metalsin soil range from industrial emissions and wastes to fertilizers and coal combustion residues to sewageand pesticides to mine tailings. Heavy metals have a greater possibility for direct and accidentalexposure due to traits such as fast production rates through human activities and their inability to bekept in a localized location. The vast majority of metals are very stable and resistant to breakdown bymicrobes and chemicals. Heavy metal contamination poses a risk to human health because it reducessoil microbial activity and agricultural yield.