Which of the following best describes sustainable agriculture?

Sustainable agriculture is best described as practices that maintain soil health and reduce environmental impact because it emphasizes long-term agricultural productivity while considering ecological balance and the well-being of future generations. This approach incorporates various practices such as crop rotation, organic farming, integrated pest management, and responsible water use, all aimed at preserving the environment and the natural resources necessary for farming.

In sustainable agriculture, the focus is not solely on immediate crop yields but rather on creating a holistic farming system that supports biodiversity and soil health. This is crucial for maintaining ecosystem services, such as pollination, nutrient cycling, and soil formation, which are essential for food production. By prioritizing methods that mitigate negative environmental impacts—like soil erosion, water depletion, and chemical runoff—sustainable practices ultimately lead to more resilient agricultural systems that can adapt to climate change and other challenges.

This understanding of sustainable agriculture helps distinguish it from other approaches that may emphasize chemical dependence, short-term yields, or monoculture farming, which can lead to detrimental effects on the environment and agricultural sustainability over time.