What happens to soil if it is not protected?

If soil is not protected, it can become eroded by wind and water, leading to loss of topsoil and degradation of soil quality. This can result in reduced fertility, decreased water retention capacity, and increased susceptibility to drought and flooding. Erosion can also lead to sedimentation of water bodies, which can harm aquatic ecosystems and reduce water quality. Additionally, unprotected soil is more vulnerable to contamination from pollutants and chemicals, which can have negative impacts on human health and the environment. Overall, lack of protection for soil can result in decreased agricultural productivity, loss of biodiversity, and degradation of ecosystems.