How does waste disposal lead to land pollution?

Inappropriate waste disposal, also known as littering, is the improper disposal of waste. When waste is not collected, it builds up and attracts pests like rats, who then carry bacteria and viruses that infect other living things. Some waste also contaminate the soil and kill nearby plants as a result of the large amounts of waste accumulated; animals may also eat the waste, such as plastic, believing it to be food, poisoning them.

Waste disposal can lead to land pollution through various mechanisms. Improper disposal methods such as open dumping, landfilling, and improper storage can result in the release of hazardous chemicals and contaminants into the soil. Leachate, a toxic liquid formed as waste decomposes, can seep into the ground, contaminating groundwater sources. Additionally, solid waste left exposed on land can attract pests and vermin, further contributing to environmental degradation. Burning waste, especially plastics and other synthetic materials, releases harmful pollutants into the air, which can settle on the land surface and contaminate soil and vegetation. Overall, inadequate waste disposal practices can degrade land quality, disrupt ecosystems, and pose risks to human health and wildlife.