Which factor does NOT contribute to soil degradation?

Organic farming is recognized for promoting healthy soil management practices, which actually enhance soil quality rather than degrade it. This agricultural approach focuses on sustainable methods that improve soil structure, health, and biodiversity. Practices associated with organic farming, such as crop rotation, use of cover crops, and reduced use of synthetic chemicals, contribute to building organic matter in the soil and preventing erosion.

In contrast, intensive agriculture practices can lead to over-farming and the depletion of soil nutrients, deforestation can result in loss of soil structure and increase erosion, and urban development often leads to soil sealing and degradation through construction activities. These factors tend to harm the soil ecosystem, contrasting the positive effects seen in organic farming. Thus, organic farming stands apart as a practice that actively contributes to soil conservation and improvement.