Fertilizers have become an indispensable part in agriculture and farming. These substances, both synthetic and organic, are added to the soil in order to increase the supply of essential nutrients that boost the growth of plants and vegetation. With the rapid increase in global population, the demand of food has also been rising tremendously. Statistics show that almost 40 to 60 percent of agricultural crops are grown with the use of different types of fertilizers. Not only this, more than 50 percent of the population feeds on crops that are grown as a result of using synthetic fertilizers. With the food supply being met, and our private lawns looking as lush and green as possible, we tend to neglect the long-term detrimental effects of using fertilizers so lavishly. Agreed, some steps have been taken by authorities to minimize their ill effects, and people are being encouraged to use organic fertilizers instead of the synthetic ones. Organic fertilizers are invariably a better option, however, they are not the ultimate solution. According to the National Geographic website, "Organic fertilizers also contain nitrogen and phosphorus that can wash off into waterways. And just like conventional fertilizers fortified with synthetic ammonia, manure and guano (bird droppings) both have high levels of naturally occurring ammonia that can 'burn' plants." Mother nature has always taught us to balance, and still continues to do so. If we eat a lot, our body goes out of shape and tells us to exercise and come back to our ideal circumference. When we exercise too much, our body tells us to slow down and relax. The cold of the winter is always counteracted by the warmth of the sun. Nature constantly works till a balance is attained, but that's just mother nature, not human nature! We all are living with the consequences of environmental imbalance. A classic example for the same would be global warming. The reasons attributed to this global threat are nothing but the mindless actions of human civilization―deforestation, greenhouse effect, soil erosion, all being the results of the same. Speaking of the use of fertilizers, these chemicals and minerals undoubtedly help in boosting the growth of plants, but our environment is paying a huge price for the same, the burden of which will be shared by one and all in the long run. Mentioned below are some key points highlighting how fertilizers negatively impact the environment. The use of fertilizers for agricultural growth and cultivation is keeping our stomach filled for now, but then, if things keep progressing in the same manner, it won't be long when all will be lost―food, water, and health. The irony of it all is that as harmful the use of fertilizers is, we have come to a point where we cannot afford to not use them at all. This is because the lack of these would not only lead to less crop production, but also lead to soil erosion due to lesser plant growth. The only option we have is to use organic fertilizers in moderation, and take necessary steps to allow the soil to replenish its lost nutrients naturally. With the current situation, it becomes indispensable to address the need of the hour, and take every rightful step to control the damage done so far. The more we educate ourselves in this subject and analyze our options, the more beneficial it would be to our environment. For now, let's begin with some small and simple steps such as, not using fertilizers lavishly, not using them during the rainy season, and avoiding excessive irrigation. Reversing the damage done would take decades, but the least we can do is to start the healing process―now!