Final answer:
The environmental impact of desalination mentioned is the increased salts in the soil which lead to salinization, negatively affecting soil productivity and requiring fresh water to clear these salts.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the excerpt, one of the environmental impacts of desalination of water includes increased salts in the soil, which may lead to salinization. Salinization occurs when small quantities of salt in the water build up in the soil over time, reducing land productivity. To remedy this issue, a process called salinization that requires flooding of the fields with fresh water to dissolve and remove the salt is needed. Additionally, the extensive use of conventional irrigation can cause salts to accumulate, necessitating the occasional use of desalinated water to cleanse the soil.
Improper management of desalination processes can lead to serious environmental consequences, such as health issues from chemical buildup, pollution, and even alterations to local climates as seen in the Aral Sea example. It's important that regions applying desalination techniques are mindful of these impacts and implement strategies to minimize them.