Earlier
I spoke about the potential benefits to the environment from genetic modification, however there are also
risks. For example genes may “escape” and find their way into general
populations of that species or into other species. For example the potential
scenario of herbicide resistant genes finding their way into weeds. They can
also potentially threaten biodiversity by competing or breeding with wild
species. Some genes may be detrimental to the survival of the plant,
potentially causing famines. There are also unknown risks to species that
interact with these genetically modified plants. For example, birds and
insects.
Next is the potential risks to human
health. An example of this is allergy inducing genes could be added to
unrelated foodstuff, and as GM crops are not labelled, a person could suffer
from a deadly allergic reaction. GM crops could potentially inadvertently make
their way into the general food supply. An example of this is the accidental
sale of unapproved genetically modified corn seed.
The
final argument against the use of genetic modification is the
possible socio-economic effects associated with genetic modification. An
example of this would be the negative impact this could have on small scale
farmers. There is a fear that large corporations will dominate the market with
superior yields of crops for example. Also heritage could potentially be lost
as traditional farming methods become outdated. Also commercial interest and
patent protection may hinder the entry of genetically modified foods into
LEDC’s.
What do you guys think about these arguments? Do they outweigh the benefits?
I am not sure.
ReplyDeleteA fierce battle or pros and cons, ofcoure the effect to humans is critical.
ReplyDeleteNo point in GM if it harms people.
i guess they do
ReplyDeleteWe need something to fight with allergies, not something that causes them.
ReplyDelete^^^^ That is exactly what we need in our day and age.
ReplyDeleteWell life should have risk that way it never gets boring! I don't think they overweight the benefits with all the cures that could come up from gen.modification.
ReplyDeleteThat said, also loving your blog. Followed.
Traditional farming methods never disappear. There will always be demand for it. So, last argument IMO is bad.
ReplyDeleteGM will be whether we like it or not.