Final answer:
Drip irrigation conserves water by delivering it directly to plant roots, reducing evaporation, runoff, and the risk of soil erosion and water contamination. Therefore, the correct option is D.
Step-by-step explanation:
A drip irrigation system is more sustainable than traditional spraying methods of irrigating crops because it conserves water resources. Drip irrigation delivers water directly to the plant roots, minimizing water loss through evaporation and runoff. Additionally, this method can increase water use efficiency, decrease water consumption for irrigation, and reduce the risk of soil erosion and water contamination from agricultural runoff containing pesticides and fertilizers. Effective water management is key in sustainable agriculture, particularly when considering that the demand for fresh water for domestic and industrial use is expected to increase, drawing supplies away from agriculture.