Impacts of agricultural pollutants on water resources and their management

Abstract

Water pollution is a rising global challenge that has expanded in both developed and developing nations, discouraging the growth of the economy as well as the physical and environmental health of billions of individuals. Recognizing the significance of water, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development has incorporated certain water quality mark that is needed to be attained in Sustainable Development Goal (SDGs) 6. Human settlements, industries, and agriculture are the main causes of water pollution. Water pollution in agriculture is complex and multidimensional, and its effective management requires a comprehensive package of responses. Such responses need to act on key drivers of agricultural expansion and intensification, such as unsustainable dietary shifts and food waste and loss; limit the export of pollutants from farms; protect water bodies from agricultural pollution loads, and help restore already-affected water bodies. Responses for influencing both farm and landscape-scale practices may include regulation; the use of economic instruments; education and awareness-raising; cooperative agreements; and research and innovation. Policies to change farmer behavior and incentivize the adoption of good practices are the key to prevent pollution at the source. Demonstrating the economic benefits to the farmers for adopting good practices has also been shown to be effective.