The use of chemical fertilizers in sustainable agriculture can have both positive and negative effects on soil health and the environment. Chemical fertilizers provide essential nutrients to plants, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are necessary for optimal growth and yield. However, excessive or improper use of these fertilizers can lead to several issues that affect soil health and contribute to environmental pollution.1. Soil health: Overuse of chemical fertilizers can lead to a decrease in soil fertility and structure. High concentrations of nutrients can cause an imbalance in the soil's natural nutrient levels, leading to a decline in the population of beneficial microorganisms. This, in turn, can result in reduced organic matter decomposition and nutrient cycling, ultimately affecting soil structure and fertility.2. Leaching and runoff: Excessive application of chemical fertilizers can cause nutrients to leach into groundwater or be carried away by surface runoff. This can lead to contamination of water sources, posing risks to both human health and aquatic ecosystems. Nutrient pollution in water bodies can cause eutrophication, which is the excessive growth of algae and other aquatic plants, leading to oxygen depletion and harm to aquatic life.3. Greenhouse gas emissions: The production and use of chemical fertilizers contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly nitrous oxide N2O . Nitrous oxide is a potent greenhouse gas with a global warming potential approximately 300 times greater than carbon dioxide CO2 . When nitrogen-based fertilizers are applied to the soil, a portion of the nitrogen can be converted to N2O through processes like nitrification and denitrification, contributing to climate change.4. Soil acidification: The use of ammonium-based fertilizers can lead to soil acidification, which is the decrease in soil pH. Acidic soils can negatively affect plant growth and reduce the availability of essential nutrients, such as phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium. In extreme cases, soil acidification can lead to soil degradation and loss of agricultural productivity.To minimize the negative impacts of chemical fertilizers on soil health and the environment, sustainable agriculture practices should focus on the efficient and responsible use of these inputs. This can be achieved through precision agriculture techniques, crop rotation, and the integration of organic and inorganic fertilizers. By adopting these practices, farmers can maintain soil health, reduce environmental pollution, and promote sustainable agricultural production.