Which type of farming focuses on biodiversity and enhancing ecosystem health beyond just avoiding chemicals?

The correct answer focuses on farming practices that prioritize biodiversity and ecosystem health. Organic farming emphasizes the use of natural processes and inputs to promote soil health, enhance biodiversity, and encourage ecological balance. It often employs techniques such as crop rotation, composting, and the use of cover crops to maintain a healthy ecosystem, rather than solely avoiding synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.

By fostering a diverse agricultural landscape, organic farming helps to support various species, maintain soil integrity, and reduce the environmental impact of farming practices. The holistic approach of organic farming not only emphasizes sustainable practices but also aims to restore and preserve natural habitats, making it a significant player in current agricultural and environmental efforts.

In contrast, intensive and conventional farming practices typically focus more on maximizing yield and efficiency, often relying on chemical inputs and monocultures, which can lead to reduced biodiversity and ecosystem degradation. Permaculture also promotes biodiversity, but it specifically emphasizes designing agricultural systems to mimic natural ecosystems, which sets it apart from organic farming's main focus on avoiding chemicals and utilizing organic inputs.