How can conventional farming potentially impact environmental sustainability?

Conventional farming can potentially impact environmental sustainability primarily through the increased reliance on chemical inputs. This approach often involves the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides to boost crop yields and manage pests. While these methods can result in immediate production benefits, they can also lead to detrimental long-term consequences for the environment. The runoff from chemical fertilizers can contaminate local waterways, leading to issues such as eutrophication, which depletes oxygen in water bodies and harms aquatic life. Additionally, the frequent use of pesticides can disrupt local ecosystems, harming non-target species and diminishing biodiversity. This reliance on chemical inputs can create a cycle of dependency that undermines soil health and resilience, ultimately posing challenges to sustainable agricultural practices.

In contrast, the methods referenced in the other choices, such as using organic fertilizers, employing crop rotation, and reducing land use, typically focus on sustainability and environmental protection. These strategies aim to enhance soil health, promote biodiversity, and reduce the negative impacts on surrounding ecosystems, thereby contributing to more sustainable agricultural systems.