Understanding Soil Erosion & How to Tackle It Effectively

​For many industries and construction projects, soil erosion is an environmental challenge that is hard to escape. And its impact can have far-reaching consequences. Without erosion control, soil erosion damages ecosystems and poses significant risks to infrastructure, safety, and long-term project success.

Let's dive into its causes, effects, and available solutions so your team can implement strategies to mitigate these risks and safeguard your operations. 

What Causes Soil Erosion? 

Soil erosion is primarily caused by a combination of natural and human activities. However, depending on the location of your project, you might be more susceptible to certain types of erosion.

Common causes of erosion include: 

• Water: Heavy rainfall, floods, and strong water currents are the most significant contributors to soil erosion. They carry away exposed soil particles, forming gullies or ravines.
• Wind: Strong winds can transport loose topsoil, leaving behind barren land and exposing lower soil layers to further erosion.
• Tillage & Construction Activities: Plowing, grading, and other construction activities can disturb the topsoil and make it more vulnerable to wind and water erosion.

The Effects of Soil Erosion 

The impacts of soil erosion are both immediate and long-term.

Environmentally, erosion strips away topsoil, rich in nutrients vital for vegetation growth.

Economically, the consequences can be just as severe. Soil erosion often leads to increased maintenance costs, delays in project timelines, and structural damage.

Industries such as construction, mining, and transportation face costly repairs from foundations compromised by shifting soil or roads weakened by sediment erosion. Health and safety also come into play, as unstable soil can lead to hazardous conditions for workers and nearby communities. 

Are there erosion control solutions? 

Fortunately, there are effective ways to combat soil erosion, even in the most challenging environments. Plus, putting erosion control products and measures into action early in a project can help stabilize soil, reduce sediment runoff, and protect natural habitats. One proven solution is using advanced polymer products like the Envirotac line of soil stabilizers. 

A few effective erosion control methods include: 

• Vegetation Management
• Soil Stabilization Techniques
• Sediment Control Systems

These can either be used exclusively or in conjunction with one another for maximum effectiveness. 

Contact Us for Expert Erosion Control Solutions 

Don’t allow soil erosion to jeopardize your operation. Reach out to us today at Environmental Products and Applications, Inc. to learn how our line of polymers can provide long-term protection for your project. Our team is ready to assist you in creating tailored erosion control plans that deliver durable, efficient, and environmentally conscious results.