How can agriculture negatively impact soil health?

Agriculture can negatively impact soil health primarily through the depletion of soil nutrients and the occurrence of erosion. Intensive farming practices often rely on chemical fertilizers to boost crop yields, which can lead to a reduction in organic matter and essential nutrients in the soil over time. This depletion can diminish soil fertility, impacting the plants' ability to grow and leading to a cycle of dependency on more fertilizers.

Erosion is another significant concern related to agricultural practices. When land is stripped of vegetation for crop production or livestock grazing, the protective layer that prevents soil wash-away is removed. This can result in the loss of topsoil, which is crucial for healthy plant growth, and can also degrade the structure of the soil, making it less productive.

In contrast, increasing biodiversity, promoting natural composting processes, and enhancing water retention in the soil are all practices that can improve soil health. Biodiversity from various crops and organisms can help build resilience against pests and diseases. Composting adds organic matter back into the soil, enriching it with nutrients, while proper water retention can help maintain soil moisture needed for crops. These practices are beneficial, in stark contrast to the negative impacts associated with nutrient depletion and erosion.