Which of the following statements accurately describe the environmental impacts associated with agricultural practices ? I. The application of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides may result in soil and water contamination. II. Sustainable agriculture focuses on preserving soil health and protecting biodiversity. III. Modern agricultural practices are unrelated to the depletion of freshwater resources. IV. Expanding monoculture farming supports overall ecosystem stability.

Statement I is accurate: Synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, when overused or improperly managed, can leach into soil and water bodies, causing contamination, including nutrient pollution (eutrophication) and toxicity to aquatic life and human health. Statement II is accurate: Sustainable agriculture aims to integrate practices that protect the environment, such as improving soil health through organic matter addition, reducing tillage, and using cover crops. It also promotes biodiversity through methods like crop rotation, agroforestry, and reducing reliance on chemical inputs. Statement III is inaccurate: Modern agricultural practices, particularly large-scale irrigation, are significant consumers of freshwater resources globally. In many regions, agricultural water use contributes heavily to the depletion of groundwater and surface water sources. Statement IV is inaccurate: Expanding monoculture farming (growing a single crop over vast areas) generally leads to reduced biodiversity, makes crops more susceptible to pests and diseases, and can degrade soil quality over time, thereby decreasing overall ecosystem stability and resilience.