What Are the Environmental Impacts of Agricultural Waste?

The environmental impacts of agricultural waste are multifaceted:

- Eutrophication: Excess nutrients from fertilizers can lead to the overgrowth of algae in water bodies, causing eutrophication. This depletes oxygen in the water, leading to fish kills and the loss of biodiversity.
- Soil Degradation: Persistent use of chemical inputs can degrade soil quality, leading to erosion, loss of organic matter, and reduced agricultural productivity.
- Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Decomposing organic waste and manure release significant amounts of methane and nitrous oxide, potent greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming.