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Around the world, as long as there have been people, people have lived with—and dangerously near—volcanoes. Why don’t we stay far away from something so hazardous? The truth is, we all benefit from volcanoes.
Volcanic soil is some of the most fertile in the world for agriculture. We use volcanic rock to make tools, construction materials, cosmetics, and products for cleaning and health care. Volcanoes even power our lives with geothermal energy.
Volcanic Soil
Volcanic rock is rich in nutrients. When it breaks down to form soils, the plants that feed on those soils benefit—and so do we.
Italy’s volcanic soil supports its renowned wine and produce. Some of the best rice-growing regions in Indonesia are in volcano hazard zones. Even in the U.S., much farming is done on volcanic soils formed after ancient eruptions.
 Volcanic Products
Many construction materials and health products are made from volcanic rock.
Volcanic cinders and pumice are used to make lightweight concrete. Both have been used in construction for thousands of years. Even, the ancient Romans used sandy Mount Vesuvius ash in the construction of their aquaducts, and pumice to make mortar for the Colosseum in Rome.
Volcanic pumice is abrasive, which makes it a favorite ingredient in cleansers and cosmetics. And when you have your teeth cleaned, the dental hygienist uses a paste made from pumice, which polishes away stains. Even the finest surgical scalpels are made from volcanic rock—their blades are made from obsidian, which can be 500 times sharper than stainless steel.
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