Introduction
GM, or genetically modified organisms, refer to living organisms whose genetic material has been altered in a way that does not occur naturally. This technology allows for the manipulation of genes to produce new traits in plants, animals, and microorganisms.
Benefits of GM
- Increased crop yield
- Resistance to pests and diseases
- Improved nutritional content
- Drought tolerance
Examples of GM
One of the most well-known examples of GM is Bt corn, which has been genetically modified to produce a Bt toxin that is toxic to certain insect pests. This has led to a reduction in the need for chemical pesticides and increased crop yields.
Case Studies
In India, Bt cotton has been found to increase yields by up to 30% and reduce pesticide use by 50%. This has had a significant impact on the livelihoods of smallholder farmers who rely on cotton production for income.
Statistics
According to the International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications, the global area of biotech crops reached 191.7 million hectares in 2018, with the majority of GM crops being soybean, maize, cotton, and canola.
