Biotechnology in agriculture : Agronomic and environmental considerations and reflections based on 15 years of GM crops

Auteur(s) et Affiliation(s)



Description :
This paper reviews the published literature on the agronomic and environmental impact of GM crops in the last 15 years. Overall, the impact of GM crops has largely been agronomically and environmentally positive in both developed and developing world contexts. The often claimed negative impacts of GM crops have yet to materialize on large scales in the field. Environmentally, the decrease in insecticide use has benefited non-target and beneficial organisms while surface and groundwater contamination is less significant; human-health problems related to pesticide use have also declined. Equally important is the reduced carbon footprint as energy inputs are reduced. Of particular note, however, is the recognition that the success or longevity of GM crops is reliant on the speed with which resistance develops in target weeds and insects. Good management will determine how long this strategy proves positive.


Type de document :
Article de périodique

Source :
Progress in physical geography, issn : 0309-1333, 2012, vol. 36, n°. 6, p. 747-763, nombre de pages : 17, Références bibliographiques : 3 p.

Date :
2012

Editeur :
Pays édition : Royaume-Uni, London, Sage Publications