Which of the following are potential environmental impacts of animal agriculture?

Animal agriculture can significantly influence the environment, and one of its most critical impacts stems from greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution, and land degradation.

Greenhouse gas emissions result from various processes in animal agriculture, including methane production during digestion in ruminants, nitrous oxide emissions from manure management, and carbon dioxide emissions from feed production and land use. These gases contribute to climate change, which poses risks to ecosystems and human health.

Water pollution is often linked to runoff from livestock operations, which can introduce excess nutrients, pathogens, and contaminants into water bodies. This can lead to algal blooms, which deplete oxygen and harm aquatic life, as well as human health issues through contaminated drinking water.

Land degradation occurs due to overgrazing, deforestation for pastureland, and unsustainable feed crop practices that can lead to soil erosion, loss of soil fertility, and desertification. These factors not only reduce the land's agricultural productivity but can also cause shifts in local ecosystems.

In summary, the multifaceted environmental impacts of animal agriculture highlight the complex relationship between livestock production and ecological health, making this the correct answer. The other choices present misleading statements about the potential benefits without acknowledging the substantial environmental challenges associated with animal agriculture.