On the occasion of World Soil Day, celebrated on December 5th, it is imperative to underline the seriousness of soil pollution caused by anthropogenic factors, as it constitutes a global issue and one of the greatest challenges facing contemporary governments. Undoubtedly, there is a direct proportional relationship between the increasing release of significant quantities of toxic substances and metals into soil layers and the alarming rise in global population and its associated activities.
To better address the topic of this article, it is deemed appropriate to clarify the definition of soil as the uppermost decomposed layer of the solid Earth’s crust, which consists of inorganic materials, organic matter, water, air, and living microorganisms. It is formed as a result of the continuous progressive fragmentation and decomposition of existing rocks due to the influence of mechanical, chemical, and biological factors. Soil is a critical medium for the proper functioning of ecosystems, as it filters water passing through it, contributes to the regulation of temperature and carbon levels, and naturally provides stability and nutrients essential for the growth of terrestrial plants.
Soil pollution can be attributed to a variety of sources, including hazardous industrial waste, chemical spills, mining and extractive activities, and the uncontrolled production and disposal of household waste in landfills. These activities have severe impacts on soil fertility and productivity, contamination of water resources through infiltration, biodiversity, environmental safety, and public health. Specifically in Greece, a primary source of pollutant accumulation in the soil, and consequently the reduction of its capacity to maintain its natural balance and functions, is the excessive use of chemical pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers in the agricultural sector. The use of agricultural chemicals in Greece began in the early 20th century and saw widespread and systematic application until around 1990. Since then, the consumption of plant protection products has fluctuated, and it is noteworthy that in 2018, approximately €244 million was spent on purchasing these chemicals.
Some alternative practices that can be implemented to remediate soils already burdened with diseases and weed infestations affecting the proper growth of crops include planting pest- and disease-resistant varieties, utilizing natural plant extracts and substances aimed at combating various fungal diseases, intercropping plants that mutually protect each other from harmful insects and parasites, crop rotation, and green fertilization—planting specific plants that naturally enrich the soil with nutrients and help suppress weeds.
Additionally, phytoremediation is increasingly recognized as a promising method for the removal, transformation, or stabilization of pollutants in the soil through the cultivation of specific plant species. Furthermore, systematic soil analyses, which provide valuable information on the chemical, physical, and biological condition of the soil, are key tools in rationalizing the use of agricultural chemical products, improving agricultural output, and ensuring long-term productivity. These analyses enable targeted decision-making for the precise nourishment and protection of crops.
It is particularly encouraging that after 2020, there has been a notable reduction in the use of pesticides and fertilizers in agriculture, as part of both national initiatives and the thematic strategy proposed by the European Union. This strategy aims to prevent soil degradation, preserve its functions, and restore already degraded areas. The establishment of stricter European regulations has raised public awareness about the environmental and health impacts of the uncontrolled use of chemical plant protection products, fostering a clear shift toward sustainable agriculture and a simultaneous increase in organic farming.