Which of the following is NOT a function of farming?

The process of farming serves numerous functions, notably including the production of food, maintenance of biodiversity, and supporting local economies. The production of food is perhaps the most recognized function, as farming is fundamentally about growing crops and raising livestock for human consumption and trade.

Maintaining biodiversity is also a critical aspect of sustainable farming practices. Farms can be managed in a way that supports a variety of plant and animal species, contributing to ecological balance and resilience.

Supporting local economies is another vital function of farming, as it provides employment, supplies local markets, and engages communities in agricultural practices, thus promoting economic development within those areas.

In contrast, the extraction of fossil fuels does not relate to agriculture; it is associated with the energy sector. Farming primarily focuses on renewable resources like crops and livestock, rather than the non-renewable resources involved in fossil fuel extraction. This delineation makes the extraction of fossil fuels the correct answer as it indicates an activity outside the realm of farming functions.