How widespread is adoption of GMO crops? |
||
|
The adoption of genetically-modified ("GMO") crops in the
US has grown dramatically since the mid-1990s, especially in soybeans and cotton. As of 2004, adoption
of herbicide tolerant (HT) soybeans expanded to 85% of acres planted. HT cotton accounted for 60%
of total acres and HT corn was adopted on only about 20% of acres planted. The second main type
of GMO technology being adopted consists of insect-resistant crops containing a soil bacterium
(Bt). Bt cotton reached 46% of acres cultivated in 2004, and Bt corn reached 32%. The principal
advantage of HT and Bt technology is superior pest control: yields rise and chemical and
other costs of insect and weed control are reduced.
~
|
||