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Pros and Cons of GMO Farming
The commercial growing of GMO crops has been around for a while – with the last two decades having been especially important for GMO advancement. As a matter of fact, it is important to note that from 1996 to 2014, the global area under GM production grew from 1.7 to 182 million HA (James 72). In essence, the crops that account for the largest portion of GM crop production include, but they are not limited to, soybean, canola, maize, and cotton (James 54). However, the all-time favorite GM crop appears to be soybean. It is, however, important to note that GM crop production is not uniform across the world. This is to say that there are some jurisdictions where GM crop production happens to be higher in comparison to others. At present, the largest GM-free zone happens to be Russia. In most cases, policy decisions regarding the production of GM crops originate from political assertions and public perceptions.
To begin with, in support of GMOs, it should be noted that with GMOs, farmers can generate better yields on existing lands with no need to expand the area already under cultivation (Lucht 4260). To a large extent, this could come in handy in an attempt to address the existing food demands of a jurisdiction – and the world at large.
Secondly, GM crops are also easier to cultivate. This is more so the case given that in essence, their tending requires less machinery, chemicals, as well as land. In this case, therefore, it is possible to cultivate crop in regions without...…nature of GMO seed production means that only a few corporations have the capacity to delve into the same, i.e. because of astronomical/huge research and development costs.
In the final analysis, it should be noted that by 2050, research indicates that the total global population will be in excess of 10 billion. The land area of planet earth is not likely to increase or expand going forward. This essentially means that human beings are only left with two options. To clear natural land for cultivation or to embrace GMO and hence increase the production potential of the land under cultivation. It is not difficult to see which option is more feasible. To mitigate the drawbacks of GMOs identified above, the relevance of government involvement, formulation of clear policy guidelines, and continued research cannot be overstated.…
Protection and preservation of the environment through increased yields and reduced use of chemical pesticides and herbicides. This is because genetically modified foods grow at a faster rate and in bigger quantities which means less forest land is cleared for agriculture and the natural habitats and biodiversity is preserved. The crops are also made pest and disease resistant which means that less pesticides and herbicides are used which could pollute
Harry Collins with Delta & Pine Land asserts that "protection systems" (the terminator seed) will "…help farmers in all areas of the world gain access to the most technologically advanced tools and products" allowing them to produce "more profitable crops" (Shand, 3). Collins goes on to insist that "traditional farming practices" -- using saved seeds to plant next season's crops -- brings "a gross disadvantage to Third World farmers" because
Introduction When it comes to the great debate over whether it is healthier to eat local foods or organic foods, there are arguments to be found on both sides. But at the end of the day, one has to decide what one is really seeking to achieve by choosing one side over the other. Organic foods are typically labeled or certified organic, meaning they are non-GMO and thus are naturally grown.
Vertical Farming-Opportunities and Challenges for Singapore There has been much talk surrounding the environmental issues of food production, with many now suggesting the city is the ideal place for growing food to cater for rapidly expanding urban populations. In Singapore, small-scale examples of this are emerging, such as Changi General Hospital and the Tanjong Pagar apartment complex. This dissertation will examine the Vertical Farming movement, and look at the opportunities and
Scientific and Political Aspects of Genetically Modified Foods While there is little controversy over many aspects of biotechnology and its application, genetically modified (GM) foods have become the target of intense controversy. This controversy in the marketplace has resulted in a firestorm of public debate, scientific discussion, and media coverage. The countries most affected by this debate are Middle Eastern and third world countries, who stand to reap the benefits of solving
genetically modified (GM) foods in the last half of the 20th century created a whirlwind of controversy in the developed. Critics argue that genetically modified foods are unnatural and unsafe, while supporters note that genetically modified foods can improve crop yields, increase nutrient content, and improve food safety. Over the past decades, the production and distribution of genetically modified foods in North America and Europe has long been discussed,