The contaminants of most concern in soil pollution include:
- Heavy Metals: Lead, cadmium, mercury, and arsenic are particularly dangerous for fetal development. - Pesticides: Chemicals used in agriculture can persist in the soil and pose risks to neonatal health. - Industrial Chemicals: Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and dioxins are toxic substances that can contaminate the soil through industrial waste. - Organic Waste: Decomposition of organic waste can release harmful pathogens and toxins into the soil.
