Question

the use of fertilizers to support the growth of green lawns is common in communities. the chemicals upset the soil ecosystem, and runoff can enter local waterways, causing harmful algae blooms.
which solution will be the best one to effectively reduce chemical use on lawns?

a work with local farmers to collect barnyard wastes for community members to spread on lawns as natural fertilizers.

b promote a school compost project to provide free compost to community members, so that they can top dress lawns with compost to avoid fertilizer use.

c work with local lawmakers in legally limiting watering and the use of chemicals on lawns by community members with fines given to those who do not comply.

d promote native lawns by educating community members on the environmental benefits and cost savings of reducing chemical use with the use of native plants.

Explanation:

Option A still uses a fertilizer (natural barnyard waste), so it doesn't eliminate chemical use fully and may not address the root need for additives. Option B replaces chemical fertilizer with compost but still requires a soil amendment, and doesn't address why lawns need fertilizers originally. Option C relies on legal enforcement and fines, which is a punitive measure that may face community pushback and doesn't address the underlying lawn care needs. Option D promotes native plants, which are adapted to the local environment, so they require little to no chemical fertilizers or additional inputs. This addresses the root cause by reducing the need for chemicals entirely, while also providing environmental and cost benefits that encourage voluntary community adoption, making it the most sustainable and effective long-term solution.

Answer:

D. Promote native lawns by educating community members on the environmental benefits and cost savings of reducing chemical use with the use of native plants.