Final answer:
The extensive irrigation system used by the Sumerians, relying on diverted river water, led to salinization and soil degradation, demonstrating unsustainable agricultural practices with long-term environmental consequences.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Sumerians' intensive irrigation system illustrates unsustainability.
Their reliance on diverted river water for agriculture resulted in gradual soil salinization.
Initially productive, the continuous use of water without proper drainage caused salt accumulation in the soil, rendering it infertile over time.
The inability to manage this consequence led to agricultural lands becoming barren, impacting food production.
This unsustainable practice showcases a lack of understanding of the long-term effects on the environment.
It's a lesson in the delicate balance between human intervention and ecological repercussions.
The Sumerian case serves as a historical cautionary tale,
emphasizing the importance of sustainable agricultural practices and environmental stewardship to maintain societal stability and prevent irreversible damage to ecosystems.