The Effects of Genetic Engineering on Agriculture

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Recommended: The issue of genetically modified foods

Genetic engineering is a way in which specific genes for an animal or plant can be extracted, and reproduced to form a new animal or plant. These new organisms will express the required trait for that gene. This practice is a very controversial topic within the scientific world. It is being implemented in various areas such as agriculture even though there are many alternatives that can be found for genetic engineered crops, such as organic materials and reducing leeching of the soil. The controversy regarding this practice occurs as it is believed to contribute both negative and positive implications and dangers, not only to oneself but the environment as a whole. Genetic engineering increases the agricultural economy, the yields of agricultural produce, and also causes negative effects on the ecosystem.

Genetic engineering enhances plant resistance to drought, salinity, disease, pests and herbicides. The aim is to try and enhance the growth, productivity, nutrient value, and chemical composition of the plants. Chemicals are constantly being developed or improved to enhance the competitiveness and adaptability of crops, and to kill the parasites and weeds which plague the agricultural sector. . This however is not always good as the plant and the pests then become resistant to these new chemicals defeating the purpose of it being used. The new chemicals which are produced to kill these strong pests and weeds may be more harmful to other plants and remove nutrients within the soil in turn reducing the yield of agricultural crops. The benefits of these characteristics are seen in Argentina according to Pelletier (2010) as they use glyphosphate resistant soybean which allowed the comeback of this crop, as the so...

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...9). Agricultural Biotechnology:Using Genetic Engineering to produce super foods. Retrieved March 9, 2011, from http://suite101.com/content/agricultural-biotechnology.html

ILEIA editorial team (2001,December). Genetic engineering: not the only option [Electronic version]. LEISA Magazine, 17.4. Retrieved March 9, 2011, from http://www.agricultresnetwork.org/

magazines/global/ge-not-the-only-option/genetic-engineering-not-the-only-option-editorial

Pelletier, C. (2010). Future evolution of genetic engineering. Retrieved March 9, 2011, from http://hfgfoodfuturist.com/2010/12/09/future-evolution-of-genetic-engineering.html

Union of Concerned Scientists (2002). Biotechnology and the worlds food supply. Retrieved March 9, 2011, from http://ucsusa.org/food_and_agriculture/science_and_impacts

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