What is one consequence of soil pollution?

Soil pollution leads to the contamination of the soil with harmful substances, which can significantly disrupt the ecosystem. One of the most notable consequences is decreased biodiversity. Contaminants in the soil can affect the microorganisms, plants, and animals that inhabit that environment. When these organisms are exposed to pollutants, their health can deteriorate, leading to population declines or local extinctions. This reduction in biodiversity is concerning because it diminishes the resilience of ecosystems, making them less able to recover from environmental stressors and less capable of providing essential services such as nutrient cycling and soil formation. Without a diverse community of organisms, the natural processes that sustain soil health and productivity are compromised, further threatening the ecosystem's integrity.