The European Environment State and Outlook 2010 reveals the latest contamination levels across the continent.

According to the report, released at the end of last week, soil contamination is still a wide-spread problem in Europe.

Heavy metals and minerals are the most widespread contaminates with an estimated 3 million acres affected by pollution.

In appropriate soil management, deforestation and over grazing are also causing wide spread soil erosion.

EEA executive director, Jacqueline McGlade, said: “We are consuming more natural resources than is ecologically stable, this is true for both Europe and the planet as a whole.

“‘There are no quick fixes but regulators, businesses and citizens need to work together and find innovative ways to use resources more efficiently.

“The seeds for future action exist: the task ahead is to help them take root and flourish.”

Luke Walsh

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