Question

write any three reasons for land degradation today

Answer 1

The reasons are: 1) deforestation 2)over irrigation 3) over grazing

Answer 2

The main reasons causing land degradation are:

1. Deforestation:

The conversion of forest lands into urban areas by cutting trees results in deforestation. This causes the loss of not only plants but also soil nutrients as the topsoil gets eroded if there is no plant cover. Further, the soil becomes weak and loose without any roots to bind it resulting in landslides.

2. Soil Pollution:

Soil pollution is the decrease in the quality of land due to loss of nutrients and fertility. Several factors cause soil pollution, including deforestation and the use of pesticides.

Fertilisers are used to kill insects and prevent the growth of weeds. Although these increase food production, the frequent usage results in loss of soil nutrients. Further, these chemicals are absorbed by plants, which cause many diseases in humans when consumed.

Thus, the soil becomes infertile after some time.

3. Overgrazing:

Excessive grazing by domestic animals causes loss of the top layer of soil which contains nutrients for vegetation. The soil is exposed to intensive grazing for extended periods, without sufficient recovery periods.