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Introduction:

Mozambique, a country blessed with abundant natural resources, is facing numerous

environmental challenges. One major problem that directly impacts the well-being of families

and communities is soil contamination. Soil toxicity poses serious threats to human health,

agricultural productivity, and overall environmental sustainability. This essay will delve into

the causes of soil toxicity, its direct effects on families and communities, and propose

potential solutions to mitigate this pressing environmental issue.

Environmental Problem:

According to Arndt et al, (2008) soil Contamination Soil contamination in

Mozambique arises primarily from human activities such as industrial processes, agricultural

practices, and improper waste disposal. Industries releasing toxic chemicals, indiscriminate

use of agrochemicals, and improper disposal of hazardous waste contribute to the

accumulation of harmful substances in the soil. These substances include heavy metals like

lead, cadmium, and mercury, as well as pesticides and other chemical pollutants.

Effects on Families and Communities:

The effects of soil contamination directly affect the health and livelihoods of me and

my family, as well as communities. Consumption of crops grown in contaminated soil can

lead to the ingestion of toxic substances, causing a range of health problems, including

respiratory problems, neurological disorders and even cancer. Communities that depend on

agriculture for their livelihoods are most at risk as their main source of food may be

contaminated.

Moreover, contaminated soil can lead to reduced agricultural productivity, affecting crop

yields and quality. This, in turn, results in economic hardships for farming families and food
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insecurity within communities. Additionally, soil contamination can affect water sources

through runoff, further exacerbating water toxicity and posing additional health risks.

Causes of Soil Contamination:

The major causes of soil contamination in Mozambique are related to the use of

hazardous chemicals in agriculture and industry. Excessive and improper application of

pesticides and fertilizers can lead to the accumulation of toxic substances in the soil.

Furthermore, inadequate waste management practices and the absence of proper disposal

facilities allow hazardous waste to seep into the soil, contaminating it over time.

Solutions to Alleviate Soil Contamination:

According to World Bank, (2010) to combat soil contamination and its adverse effects

on families and communities, several measures can be adopted:

a) Sustainable Agriculture Practices: Promote the use of organic and eco-friendly

agricultural practices, reducing reliance on chemical pesticides and fertilizers. Integrated pest

management (IPM) techniques can help control pests while minimizing chemical use.

b) Soil Remediation: Implement soil remediation techniques, such as bioremediation

and phytoremediation, to remove contaminants from the soil naturally. These methods use

microorganisms and plants to break down or absorb harmful substances.

c) Proper Waste Management: Enhance waste management practices by

establishing proper disposal facilities for hazardous waste. Implementing strict regulations

and penalties for improper waste disposal will deter industries from polluting the soil.
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d) Awareness and Education: Raise awareness among farmers and communities

about the risks of soil contamination and promote sustainable agricultural practices. Educate

people on proper waste disposal and the importance of safeguarding soil quality.

Conclusion:

Soil contamination is a significant environmental problem that affects families and

communities in Mozambique directly. The causes of soil toxicity, including the improper use

of chemicals and inadequate waste management, require urgent attention. By adopting

sustainable agricultural practices, implementing soil remediation techniques, ensuring proper

waste management, and promoting awareness and education, Mozambique can take decisive

steps towards reducing and alleviating soil contamination. Protecting the soil is not only

crucial for the well-being of current generations but also for preserving the environment for

future ones.

Word count 674

References

1. Dykstra, Page, 2011. Learning from Success and Challenges. Briefing by

RevenueWatch Institute, March 2011. Available at http://data.revenuewatch.org/eiti/.

2. EU Country Environment Profile for Mozambique (CEP), 2006, by Consortium

AGRIFOR Consult

3. Economist Intelligence Unit, 2011. Country Report Mozambique - August 2011.

4. Engström, Linda, 2009. Liquid Biofuels – Opportunities and Challenges in

Developing Countries. Sida’s Helpdesk for Environmental Assessment. Swedish EIA

Centre, Rapporter Institutionen för stad och land 4/2009, Swedish University of

Agricultural Sciences (SLU). http://sidaenvironmenthelpdesk.se/publications/

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5. Poverty Environment Initiative (PEI), (accessed 15 august 2011):

http://www.unpei.org/whatwe-do/pei-countries/mozambique.html World Bank, World

6. Development Indicators (accessed 23 August, 2011):

http://data.worldbank.org/country/mozambique