Agricultural systems are complex and consist of many interconnected components. Changes in one area can have unintended effects on environmental risks caused by other components and tools. Therefore, a holistic approach to assessing these relationships is necessary to achieve more sustainable outcomes in agriculture.  As an example, a methodological analysis of the environmental impacts of common agricultural practices and their influence on soil health, including water, climate and biodiversity, was carried out. A focused literature review identified both opportunities and risks of various agronomic instruments, but also revealed numerous gaps in research on specific methods such as harvesters.  Based on these results, conservation agriculture was investigated in detail. Numerous benefits for soil health were identified, but also potential challenges. A differentiated understanding of management options can thus help to comprehensively assess ecological impacts, minimise potential trade-offs and optimise results. This approach promotes the development of regulatory and business strategies that can address biodiversity and ecosystem services in a results-oriented manner.