Behind the refreshing taste of orange juice lies a hidden cost often overlooked by consumers. The production of orange juice, particularly on a commercial scale, can have detrimental effects on the environment. Extensive monoculture farming practices dedicated to orange cultivation deplete soil nutrients, leading to erosion and a decline in biodiversity. Additionally, the use of pesticides and herbicides to protect the crops can contaminate water sources and harm beneficial insects. The transportation of oranges across long distances for processing and distribution also contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, further exacerbating environmental concerns.
