Which of the following is a goal of sustainable agriculture?

The goal of sustainable agriculture is fundamentally centered around ensuring food production for future generations. This approach emphasizes practices that are environmentally friendly, socially equitable, and economically viable, thereby creating a system that not only meets the needs of the current population but also protects and enhances the resources needed for future agricultural productivity.

In sustainable agriculture, long-term strategies are prioritized over short-term gains. This includes practices like crop rotation, organic farming, and the conservation of water and soil health, which are essential for maintaining the ecosystem's balance and resilience. By focusing on sustainable methods, agriculture can contribute to food security while minimizing negative impacts on the environment, ensuring that future generations will have access to the resources necessary for food production.

Other options represent goals that conflict with the principles of sustainability. Maximizing chemical use, for instance, often leads to environmental degradation and health risks, while prioritizing short-term profits can undermine the long-term viability of farming systems. Decreasing biodiversity erodes the resilience of ecosystems, which is contrary to the aim of maintaining a robust agricultural system that can withstand changes and challenges over time.