gmo
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Exploring the potential of genetically engineered crops in agriculture and the environment
Researchers argue that genetically engineered crops could significantly reduce carbon emissions, despite widespread skepticism and regulatory challenges.
In short:
- Golden rice, engineered to combat childhood blindness, faces significant opposition and regulatory barriers in the Philippines.
- Genetically engineered crops like the herbicide-resistant corn reduce the need for land tilling, potentially lowering carbon emissions.
- The public remains divided on GMO safety, influencing market trends and regulatory policies.
Key quote:
“We see GMOs as a tool of the major corporations that already have a stranglehold on our food system.”
— Amanda Starbuck, research director at Food and Water Watch
Why this matters:
Proponents say genetically modified crops offer a dual benefit: enhancing nutritional value and mitigating climate change impacts. Skeptics question the long-term impacts on biodiversity and the possibility of unforeseen consequences in modified crops. Moreover, regulatory frameworks in many countries are rigorous and slow to adapt, often reflecting public wariness and ethical concerns over genetic modifications.
Be sure to read Charles Benbrook’s article on the mistakes made in the approval of the first genetically engineered crops—and what we can learn from them
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NC State researchers engineer 'promising' plastic-degrading microbe to help polluted oceans
North Carolina State University researchers have genetically modified bacteria to break down ocean-polluting plastics commonly used in water bottles and clothing.
Photo by Tomasz Filipek on Unsplash
Super crops are coming: Is Europe ready for a new generation of gene-edited plants?
The European Commission’s proposal to legalize lab-tweaked crops pits Big Agri against environmental campaigners and small farmers.
jentavery/ Flickr
Genetically modified mosquitoes may protect the world from disease
Modified mosquitoes could breed themselves out of existence, eliminating dengue, Zika and yellow fever.
For insect farming to work, scientists need to build a better bug
Faster-growing, fatter critters could provide the protein needed to raise more climate-friendly livestock and pets.
Top Story
What’s on the Thanksgiving table in a hotter, drier world?
Wild boar. Kelp salad. Crickets in your pie crust. These are just a few things that may end up on Thanksgiving menus as climate change takes its toll on the planet.
Sarah Garland, Jan Dutkiewicz: What should we call lab meat? (Probably not “lab meat.”)
It’s real meat, biologically speaking, not a plant-based imitation. But it didn’t come from a living, breathing animal. The words used to brand it could make all the difference—just ask GMO producers.
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