What is one environmental impact of herbicides?

Herbicides are chemical substances used to control unwanted plants, but they can have significant environmental impacts, one of which is the potential for contamination of water sources. When herbicides are applied to fields, they can be washed away by rain or irrigation, leading to runoff that enters nearby streams, rivers, and lakes. This contamination can adversely affect aquatic ecosystems and drinking water supplies.

The ability of herbicides to migrate from their intended application areas poses a risk to non-target plants and animals, disrupts habitat, and can also lead to the accumulation of harmful chemicals in the food chain. Such contamination can result in reduced biodiversity and the depletion of sensitive species.

In contrast, the other options suggest positive effects of herbicides, such as enhancing soil fertility, increasing crop resilience, or promoting biodiversity, which do not accurately represent the ecological consequences often observed with their use. Herbicides primarily target specific plant species to manage weeds, but their broader effects on the environment, particularly regarding water safety, highlight the need for careful management and application practices in agriculture.