What is the main idea of a passage about sustainable farming?

• A. That sustainable farming reduces long-term costs and environmental impact.
• B. That sustainable farming is more labor-intensive and costly.
• C. That sustainable farming has no impact on profit.
• D. That sustainable farming relies solely on synthetic inputs.

Answer: (A)

The main idea being tested is that sustainable farming aims to lower costs over the long run while reducing environmental impact. A passage about sustainable farming typically highlights practices that protect soil health, conserve water, reduce chemical inputs, and build long‑term resilience. These elements tend to lower waste and ongoing expenses and lessen environmental harm, so the overall message is that sustainability leads to both economic and ecological benefits in the long term.

Other statements drift away from this broad takeaway: suggesting more labor or upfront costs, claiming there’s no effect on profit, or asserting reliance on synthetic inputs doesn’t reflect the central idea that sustainable methods balance productivity with environmental stewardship to achieve lasting benefits.