What is a common but unsustainable way some farmers respond to crop failure?
A. Reducing water usage
B. Planting more native species
C. Switching to organic farming
D. Using chemical fertilizers and pesticides
Answer (2)
The common but unsustainable response to crop failure among farmers is the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, as these practices can lead to long-term environmental and health issues. Such reliance on chemicals promotes a cycle of dependency that can be detrimental to soil health and biodiversity. Sustainable farming alternatives exist but may take longer to show results.
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In response to crop failure, farmers often resort to different strategies to try to salvage their harvests. However, one common but unsustainable approach is (D) Using chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
Chemical fertilizers and pesticides are widely used in agriculture to enhance crop yield and protect plants from pests and diseases. Here's a step-by-step breakdown of why this method is unsustainable:
Environmental Impact : The use of chemical fertilizers can lead to nutrient runoff into nearby water bodies, causing problems like eutrophication, which severely affects aquatic life. Pesticides can harm non-target organisms, including beneficial insects, birds, and aquatic animals.
Soil Health Decline : Excessive use of chemical fertilizers can degrade soil quality over time. It can disrupt the natural nutrient balance of the soil, reduce organic matter, and impair microorganisms that are vital for maintaining soil health.
Pest Resistance : Over-reliance on chemical pesticides can lead to the development of pesticide-resistant strains of pests. When pests evolve resistance, farmers may need to use even more potent chemicals, perpetuating a harmful cycle.
Human Health Risks : Direct exposure to high levels of chemical fertilizers and pesticides can pose health risks to farmworkers and consumers. There are concerns about chemical residues on food, which can have long-term health implications.
Economic Burden : Dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides increases costs for farmers. These products can be expensive, and their prolonged use may not remain financially viable, especially for small-scale farmers.
While chemical fertilizers and pesticides can offer short-term benefits in combating crop failures, their long-term sustainability is challenged by their environmental, health, and economic impacts. Sustainable agricultural practices, such as crop rotation, organic farming, and the use of natural pest predators, are encouraged as alternatives to ensure food security and environmental health.
