What are some of the disadvantages to the exclusive use of synthetic fertilizers to replenish soil nutrients?

Overuse of fertilizer chemicals gradually reduces the fertility of the soil.

Chemicals from agricultural land spilling over into natural water bodies will contaminate them, causing lakes to become eutrophic and possibly even killing aquatic life.

1. Soil degradation and loss of fertility over time.
2. Negative impact on soil microbial diversity and activity.
3. Increased risk of water pollution due to leaching of excess nutrients.
4. Dependency on non-renewable resources for synthetic fertilizer production.
5. Disruption of nutrient balance in the soil, leading to imbalances in plant growth.
6. Contribution to greenhouse gas emissions during fertilizer manufacturing.
7. Potential harm to beneficial organisms in the soil, such as earthworms.
8. Risk of creating resistant pest and weed populations due to long-term use.
9. High energy consumption in the production of synthetic fertilizers.
10. Economic burden on farmers due to the cost of purchasing synthetic fertilizers.