A modified perspective of genetically modified crops

In a recent analysis, experts have determined that Europe’s rejection of genetically engineered crops results in 33 million tons of additional carbon dioxide emissions annually — 7.5% of total greenhouse gas emissions of the European agricultural sector.

This news clearly demonstrates that there is a fine line between well-founded caution of scientific advancements and refusal to accept their proven safety. Within the past few months, international reactions to the use of genetically modified crops have been harsh; China’s Ministry of Agricultural and Rural Affairs has planned to increase regulation and supervision of genetically modified organisms, while Mexico banned transgenic corn completely.

Although strong opponents to the use of GMOs such as Greenpeace applaud this trend, the anti-GMO narrative is not only hurting farmers and consumers, but also poses a threat to the environment.

The scientific community repeatedly disavows that GMOs are harmful. In a historic statement refuting Greenpeace’s unfounded anti-GMO campaign, scientists said that “there has never been a single confirmed case of a negative health outcome for humans or animals from their consumption [of GMOs].” By ignoring this analysis, the anti-GMO movement promotes a misconception which impedes the inherent environmental benefits of GMOs.

The U.N. estimates that by the year 2050, the world’s population will increase by 2 billion. With this surge comes less farmland yet more mouths to feed. Research has enabled scientists to produce genetically modified (GM) crops resistant to stressful conditions, which not only increases yield for farmers, but also demonstrates how GM crops are a more efficient use of farmland and space in general. Moreover, these GM crops need less water and improve soil wellness — another win for the environment.

Transgenic crops can naturally resist their own pests, which significantly decreases the need for pesticides. In fact, it has been found that “on average, GM technology adoption has reduced chemical pesticide use by 37%, increased crop yields by 22%, and increased farmer profits by 68%.” Genetically modified crops support farmers as well as our planet. The rhetoric that these ideas are mutually exclusive is profoundly unscientific.

Potentially one of the most beneficial modern-day scientific advancements, GM crops are a sustainable, healthy and necessary tool to accommodate the increasing food demand and its environmental implications. Granted, it’s easy to be misled by the busy labels and baseless scare tactics of the supermarket, which is why it’s important for us to engage with farmers and scientists to get the facts.

The idea of genetically modifying organisms is undeniably a weighty one. Yet anti-GMO legislation based on fear rather than scientific evidence is a hindrance to industry as well as the environment. We must be wary of the government’s power to rob farmers of autonomy. As both consumers and citizens, everyday individuals must realize their power in this situation.

So long as the international trend of banning genetically modified crops continues, the environment will suffer as well. For a healthier society and environment, the benefits of GMOs must be embraced.