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Chapter 12

This chapter examines the environmental impacts of traditional agriculture, highlighting issues such as land degradation and water pollution caused by intensive farming practices. It discusses how these practices threaten biodiversity and ecosystem services while also addressing the emergence of climate-resilient agricultural practices in response to climate change challenges. The chapter underscores the need for sustainable agricultural methods to mitigate these environmental concerns.

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Mohammad Vaheed
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2 views1 page

Chapter 12

This chapter examines the environmental impacts of traditional agriculture, highlighting issues such as land degradation and water pollution caused by intensive farming practices. It discusses how these practices threaten biodiversity and ecosystem services while also addressing the emergence of climate-resilient agricultural practices in response to climate change challenges. The chapter underscores the need for sustainable agricultural methods to mitigate these environmental concerns.

Uploaded by

Mohammad Vaheed
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Chapter: Environmental Impact of Agriculture and the Emergence of Climate-Resilient

Agriculture

1. Introduction

Agriculture, the backbone of human civilization, has undergone significant transformations


over the centuries. While it has played a crucial role in providing sustenance, it has also been
a major driver of environmental change. This chapter explores the complex interplay between
agriculture and the environment, focusing on the environmental impacts of traditional
agriculture and the emergence of climate-resilient agricultural practices as a response to the
challenges posed by climate change.

2. Environmental Impacts of Traditional Agriculture

2.1 Land Degradation

One of the foremost environmental concerns associated with traditional agriculture is land
degradation. Intensive farming practices, including monoculture and excessive use of
synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, have led to soil erosion, loss of soil fertility, and
desertification. This degradation not only reduces agricultural productivity but also threatens
biodiversity and ecosystem services.

Reference: Lal, R. (2015). Restoring soil quality to mitigate soil degradation. Sustainability,
7(5), 5875-5895.

2.2 Water Pollution

Agriculture is a major source of water pollution, primarily through the runoff of


agrochemicals such as pesticides and fertilizers. These chemicals can contaminate surface
water and groundwater, posing risks to aquatic ecosystems and human health. The excessive
withdrawal of water for irrigation also contributes to the depletion of aquifers and the drying
of wetlands.

Reference: Carpenter, S. R., Caraco, N. F., Correll, D. L., Howarth, R. W., Sharpley, A. N.,
& Smith, V. H. (1998). Nonpoint pollution of surface waters with phosphorus and nitrogen.
Ecological Applications, 8(3), 559-568.

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