1. Environmental degradation: Extensive farming practices can lead to soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and pollution of waterways due to the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
2. Deforestation: Clearing large areas of land for extensive farming can contribute to deforestation, which can have negative impacts on local ecosystems and wildlife.
3. Reduced soil fertility: Continuous cultivation of the same crops in large areas can deplete the soil of nutrients, leading to decreased fertility and lower crop yields over time.
4. Water usage: Extensive farming often requires large amounts of water for irrigation, which can put a strain on local water resources and lead to water scarcity in some regions.
5. Loss of traditional farming practices: Extensive farming can displace small-scale farmers and traditional farming practices, leading to a loss of cultural heritage and knowledge.
6. Increased greenhouse gas emissions: Extensive farming practices, such as the use of heavy machinery and transportation of crops over long distances, can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.
7. Health risks: The use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in extensive farming can pose health risks to farm workers, nearby communities, and consumers who are exposed to these chemicals through food consumption.