Less spoilage. May harm beneficial insects.Faster growth
which may mean
greater productivity,
resulting in lower
operating costs.May pose an allergen risk.More resistant to
disease, drought,
frost, and insects.May result in mutations with unknown
consequences.May be able to
grow in saltier soils.May cause pesticide-resistant strains.Less exposure to
pesticides and
herbicides for farm
workers.Plants are often designed to produce sterile
seeds, requiring farmers to purchase new seeds
each year.CASE STUDY
Golden rice is produced by splicing three foreign genes, two from the daffodil
and one from a bacterium, into a variety of rice that supplies vitamin A to
populations that frequently suffer from vitamin A deficiency.SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE
Sustainable agricultural practices emphasize production and food systems that
are profitable, environmentally sound, and energy efficient, and improve the
quality of life for both farmers and the public. Sustainable agriculture is based on
enhancing the health of the land and rural communities and concentrating on
long-term solutions rather than short-term treatment of symptoms. Examples of
sustainable agricultural practices include:
■ Use water and nutrients efficiently.
■ Keep the soil covered throughout the year.
■ Reduce or eliminate tillage in a manner that is consistent with effective
weed control.