Science Common Sense

614 - How does farming affect the environment?

Farming can affect the environment in both good and bad ways.

Bad ways: 1. Water Pollution: Chemicals like pesticides and fertilizers can enter nearby rivers, lakes, or underground water, harming animals and plants that live in or near the water. 2. Soil Erosion: If farms don't care for their soil properly, it can get washed away by rain, losing its nutrients. 3. Greenhouse Gases: Farming animals like cows can produce methane gas which contributes to climate change. 4. Habitat Loss: When forests are cut down for farms, animals lose their homes.

Good ways: 1. Carbon Sequestration: Trees and plants absorb carbon dioxide from the air, helping to reduce climate change. 2. Biodiversity: Some farms can be a home to various animals and plants. 3. Air Purification: Crops can help purify the air by removing pollutants. 4. Soil Conservation: Sustainable farming methods can keep the soil healthy and help it store water.

Farmers and consumers are working together to find ways to reduce the bad effects and increase the good effects of farming.