Mullasaaste

Mullasaaste, commonly translated as soil contamination, refers to the presence of harmful substances in soil as a result of human activity. It encompasses a range of pollutants, including heavy metals such as lead and cadmium; organic compounds such as hydrocarbons, solvents, and pesticides; PFAS and radioactive materials. These contaminants are introduced by industry, agriculture, waste management, and urban development, and may affect agricultural land, ecosystems, and human health.

Contamination can originate from point sources, such as leaking storage tanks, former industrial facilities, or landfills, as well as from diffuse sources like atmospheric deposition or irrigation with contaminated water. The distribution of Mullasaaste is often influenced by soil type, hydrology, and land use history, leading to hot spots near risk sources.

Environmental and health effects can be significant. Soil quality and fertility can decline; microbial and faunal communities may be disrupted; plants may uptake contaminants, potentially entering the food chain. Groundwater can become polluted through leaching, posing risks to drinking water supplies. Human exposure can occur through crop consumption, dust, direct soil contact, or occupational activities.

Assessment typically involves systematic soil sampling and laboratory analysis for target contaminants, followed by risk assessment that compares concentrations with cleanup or safety thresholds. Spatial mapping of contamination helps identify hotspots and prioritize remediation.

Remediation and management strategies aim to prevent further inputs and reduce existing risks. Options include excavation and disposal, capping, in-situ stabilization or solidification, soil washing, thermal treatment, bioremediation, and phytoremediation. Long-term monitoring and land-use controls are often part of the remediation plan.

Policy and terminology vary by country but generally align with international concepts of soil pollution and environmental remediation. Mullasaaste is a standard term in Estonian environmental literature describing this condition.