What is an example of a sustainable agricultural practice?

Integrated pest management (IPM) is an example of a sustainable agricultural practice because it focuses on minimizing the environmental impact of pest control while maintaining agricultural productivity. IPM employs a combination of biological, cultural, physical, and chemical methods to effectively manage pest populations. This approach promotes biodiversity, reduces the over-reliance on chemical pesticides, and fosters a healthier ecosystem.

By utilizing methods such as crop rotation, biological pest control, and selective use of chemicals, IPM not only protects crops but also conserves beneficial organisms and natural pest predators. This sustainability aspect helps ensure that agricultural practices can be maintained over the long term without degrading the environment or depleting resources.

In contrast, practices like monoculture farming can lead to soil depletion and increased vulnerability to pests, while excessive fertilizer use can contaminate water supplies and harm ecosystems. Dependence on non-renewable resources is also unsustainable, as it undermines the long-term viability of agricultural practices.