Do GMOs harm the environment? |
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One beneficial side effect of the adoption of GM crops in US agriculture has been a reduction in the use of chemical pesticides, and some switching from more toxic to less toxic (Glyphosate) pesticides. These results have been documented for the three main GMO crops (soybeans, cotton and corn) in the US. Results with other GMO crops may vary. The other main environmental concern is the potential unintended effects of these plants on natural ecosystems. A recent study of the National Academy of Sciences (2002) finds that both conventional and transgenic methods for adding genetic variation to crops can cause changes that result in unintended effects on crop traits, and that specific traits introduced by both approaches can pose unique risks. They point out that farming tends to exert simplifying and destabilizing effects on neighboring ecosystems, and that these effects appear to weaken or destroy ecosystems' capacity for resilience (ability to return to its initial state despite disturbance). The potential ecological effects of transgenic crops, as well as of other crops bearing novel traits, may be heightened in this destabilized setting. The report finds that, with few exceptions, the environmental risks that will accompany future novel plants cannot be predicted. The study recommends adequate risk analysis and a regulatory setting that reinforces the seriousness with which environmental risks are addressed. Reference: National Academy of Sciences, 2002. "Environmental Effects of Transgenic Plands: the scope and adequacy of regulation." (http://www.nap.edu). ~
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