The correct answer is D. Excessive use of chemical fertilizers can lead to soil degradation, water pollution, and reduced crop yields.
Soil degradation is the loss of the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil that make it productive. It can be caused by a number of factors, including erosion, salinization, and acidification. Chemical fertilizers can contribute to soil degradation by increasing the concentration of salts in the soil, which can make it difficult for plants to grow.
Water pollution is the contamination of water bodies with harmful substances. Chemical fertilizers can pollute water bodies in a number of ways. When they are applied to crops, they can runoff into nearby waterways. They can also leach into groundwater. Once in water bodies, chemical fertilizers can cause a number of problems, including algae blooms, fish kills, and human health problems.
Reduced crop yields is a decrease in the amount of food that can be produced from a given area of land. Chemical fertilizers can contribute to reduced crop yields by causing nutrient imbalances in the soil. They can also make crops more susceptible to pests and diseases.
In conclusion, excessive use of chemical fertilizers can have a number of negative consequences, including soil degradation, water pollution, and reduced crop yields. It is important to use chemical fertilizers judiciously and to follow best practices to minimize their impact on the environment.