Understanding the Environmental Consequences of Factory Farming Factory farming has significant environmental consequences. The method of factory farming contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, land degradation, deforestation, and water pollution. Contributing to Greenhouse Gas Emissions Factory farming is a major contributor to climate change. Livestock production releases large amounts of methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Additionally, the intensive use of fossil fuels in factory farming contributes to climate change. Leading to Land Degradation and Deforestation Factory farming practices result in land degradation and deforestation. The expansion of factory farms leads to the destruction of natural habitats. Deforestation is also driven by the need for animal feed production. Affecting Water Quality The use of chemicals and antibiotics in factory farming affects water quality. Chemical runoff from factory farms pollutes rivers and other water bodies. This pollution has detrimental effects on aquatic species and ecosystems. The Role of Factory Farming in Climate Change …