Environmental impact of volcanic ash

Volcanic ash can significantly impact the environment by temporarily reducing air quality and sunlight, which affects plant growth and animal health. Ash can settle on water bodies, contaminating them and harming aquatic life. It can also damage machinery, crops, and structures. While it often enriches soil over time, the immediate effects include respiratory issues for living beings and disruption of ecosystems. These impacts can last from days to years, depending on eruption size and ash dispersal. Proper management and monitoring help mitigate these effects, safeguarding both ecological health and human livelihoods.