What is Dirt?
Dirt is a substance that covers the surface of the earth, made up of a combination of organic and inorganic materials. It includes minerals, water, air, and organic matter such as decaying plant and animal remains.
Types of Dirt
- Topsoil
- Clay
- Sand
- Silt
Importance of Dirt
Dirt is essential for plant growth, providing nutrients and anchorage for roots. It also plays a role in water retention and filtration.
Case Study: Soil Degradation
In recent years, soil degradation has become a major issue worldwide, with 33% of global soils degraded due to erosion, depletion of nutrients, and contamination.
Statistics on Dirt
- According to the UN, over 1.5 billion people worldwide depend on degraded lands for their livelihoods.
- Soil erosion costs the US an estimated $37.6 billion annually in lost agricultural productivity.
