Soil: Importance, Benefits & Environmental Functions

The majority of us consider the ground to be nothing more than ordinary dirt when we look down at it. However, behind the scenes, that seemingly unremarkable soil is actually working hard. It retains our water, provides food, refuge for small animals and even aids in building the walls of our houses. Because it is constantly present and silently performing its function, the majority of us never take the time to observe it. But if you look closely, you'll see that practically every aspect of our daily lives involves dirt. Here are some basic explanations of how dirt benefits us.

Table of Contents: 

• Growing Our Food
• A Home for Tiny Creatures
• Building Materials
• Storing and Cleaning Water
• Useful Raw Materials
• Supporting Forests and Wildlife
• Taking Care of Soil

Growing Our Food

This is the first thing that comes to mind and for good reason. Plant roots require the water, air and nutrients found in soil to grow. In soil, farmers cultivate fruits, vegetables, wheat and rice. In other words, every meal you consume has some connection to the soil. Even the wooden table at home or your cotton t-shirt was once a plant growing on earth.

A Home for Tiny Creatures

Soil is more than just plants. Earthworms, ants, beetles and bacteria too small to see inhabit this bustling little world. In fact, these organisms maintain the health of the soil. As they move, earthworms create tiny tunnels that facilitate easier passage of water and air through the soil. Consequently, this promotes greater plant growth. It's a tiny but significant cycle.

Building Materials

For thousands of years, people have built homes out of mud and soil clay; many villages still have mud homes today. Soil is used to make pots, bricks and tiles. Potters use clay, a kind of dirt, to create bowls, toys and ornamental items. It's a skill that has been handed down through the generations and it all begins with the ground we walk on.

Storing and Cleaning Water

The water doesn't simply vanish when it rains. Much of it absorbs into the ground, much like a sponge absorbing a spill. After being held underground, this water eventually floods rivers, ponds and wells. Dirt and dangerous particles are filtered away as the water moves through the soil. Thus, dirt is also discreetly purifying our water.

Useful Raw Materials

Iron, coal and limestone are among the minerals found in soil and the rocks beneath it. These are utilized in the production of machinery, instruments and even some medications. Materials needed in factories to produce glass, cement and other chemicals are abundant in some soils. Soil is therefore useful for many different sectors in addition to farming.

Supporting Forests and Wildlife

Thousands of creatures, birds and insects can be found in woods, which are made of dirt. In addition to providing strength by penetrating deeply into the ground, tree roots also keep the soil in place during periods of high precipitation. Forests and soil essentially support one another and a variety of fauna.

Taking Care of Soil

Since soil provides us with so much, it makes sense to look after it as well. Overuse of pesticides on farms can gradually deteriorate the soil. Small actions that make a big difference in maintaining good soil include planting more trees, removing plastic garbage from the land and preserving forests. Clean water, wholesome food and a better environment for all of us are directly correlated with good soil. Take another look at the ground under you the next time you go outside. It's more than dirt. Almost everything around you is subtly supported by it.