Question : The term "sustainable agriculture" refers to practices that:
Option 1: Maximize crop yield without regard to environmental impact
Option 2: Minimize pesticide use and protect soil quality
Option 3: Promote monoculture farming practices
Option 4: Encourage excessive water use in farming
Correct Answer: Minimize pesticide use and protect soil quality
Solution :
The correct answer is (B) Minimize pesticide use and protect soil quality.
"Sustainable agriculture" refers to the practice of producing food, fiber, and other agricultural products in a way that meets present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It involves adopting farming practices that are environmentally responsible, economically viable, and socially equitable.
One of the key principles of sustainable agriculture is minimizing pesticide use. This involves using integrated pest management (IPM) techniques that focus on prevention, monitoring, and control of pests while minimizing the use of chemical pesticides. Sustainable agriculture also emphasizes the protection of soil quality by promoting practices such as crop rotation, cover cropping,conservation tillage, and the use of organic matter to improve soil health and fertility.
Sustainable agriculture recognizes the importance of biodiversity, soil conservation, water management, and the overall ecological balance in agricultural systems. It aims to reduce the environmental impact of farming, enhance ecosystem services, and promote long-term sustainability.