Essay on The Advantages of Gene Technology

The issue of genetically modified (GM) crops is an emotive topic with the public. In the UK, the public appears to have adopted a precautionary / sceptical approach (Gaskell, 2004). Public opposition to agricultural biotechnology has resulted in a decline in the number of GM crop field trials being carried out in England and has forced some companies, such as Syngenta, to relocate its agri-biotech research and development away from the UK to the USA (Davies, 2004). However, this new technology, if properly regulated, could address issues relating to increased population growth and sustainable development.

An exploration of scientific evidence surrounding the potential impact of GM crops on the UK environment was carried out during a discussion meeting at the Royal Society in February 2003 (royalsoc.ac.uk, 2005). During the discussion the detrimental impact of modern agricultural practices on the environment set the scene for the debate that followed. Current agricultural practices are not sustainable. Plant, invertebrate and bird numbers have all declined during the last century as a result of land management practices, whilst excess levels of fertilizer inputs have led to deteriorating water quality problems (of which, groundwater contamination and eutrophication are perhaps the most significant environmentagency.gov.uk, 2005). The cause has been the increasing intensification and specialisation of farming, with a shift from mixed farming to arable farming in the east and grassland in the west. Biodiversity has also been impacted by the planting of autumn cereals and planting of silage. Traditionally, the incentives for farmers to farm in a more sustainable manner, with a view towards biodiversity conservation, have been absent. The question relating to GM crops / agricultural biotechnology is therefore whether or not they will improve or worsen the situation.

A recurring theme in the debate surrounding GM has been gene flow. Pollination involves the flow …

Tags: biotechnology, BMA, Cartagena Protocol, farmers, genes, GM agriculture, GM crops

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