How much do we know about the environmental impact of GM crops on insects and other plant species?
Some GM crops have the potential to increase biodiversity by allowing more environmentally friendly practices compared with conventional farming methods. This is true in pest-resistant cotton crops in Australia. In field trials of a GM variety of pest-resistant cotton, Bollgard II, pesticide use was reduced by up to 75 per cent compared to conventional cotton. This means fewer chemicals to pollute rivers, leave residues in the soil and affect harmless and beneficial insects. There is far greater biodiversity of insects in these crops than those treated with conventional pesticides. Concerns have been expressed about the development of GM crop monocultures. Research is needed to determine the advantages and disadvantages of the GM crops compared to conventional crops.
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- How much do we know about the environmental impact of GM crops on insects and other plant species?
