How does minimizing excess fertilizer contribute to environmental sustainability?

Minimizing excess fertilizer is crucial for environmental sustainability primarily because it reduces the risk of runoff and contamination. When fertilizers are applied in amounts that exceed what plants can use, excess nutrients can wash away during rain events. This runoff can carry fertilizers into nearby water bodies, leading to issues such as eutrophication, which depletes oxygen in the water and can kill aquatic life.

By carefully managing fertilizer application to match plant needs, practitioners can ensure that nutrients are used effectively within the soil. This approach not only supports crop health and productivity but also protects water quality by preventing harmful nutrient accumulation in lakes and rivers. Sustainable fertilizer practices thus serve to maintain ecological balance and protect local ecosystems from the adverse effects of chemical exposure.