9. Why is it fair to say that genetically modified crops are being promoted without full understanding of their impact? (a) Because farmers requested GM crops for better productivity. (b) Because traditional crops no longer grow without chemical support. (c) Because the chemical industry no longer markets pesticides. (d) Because their long-term effects have not been fully studied.
Answer (1)
The correct answer to the question is (d) Because their long-term effects have not been fully studied.
Genetically modified (GM) crops are plants used in agriculture that have had their DNA altered using genetic engineering techniques. These modifications are usually made to introduce a new trait to the plant which does not occur naturally in the species, such as resistance to certain pests, diseases, environmental conditions, reduction of spoilage, or resistance to chemical treatments (e.g., herbicides).
It's fair to say that genetically modified crops are promoted without full understanding of their impact because:
Long-term Safety Studies : The long-term effects of consuming GM crops on health and the environment are still not fully understood. While they are tested for safety before being introduced to the market, these tests primarily focus on short-term effects. The potential impact of GM crops on human health and the environment over an extended period remains ambiguous.
Environmental Concerns : There are concerns about the impact of GM crops on biodiversity. For example, there might be unintended harm to other organisms or the spread of genes to wild plants which could result in 'superweeds' that are resistant to herbicides.
Economic and Social Impact : The introduction of GM crops has led to economic and ethical discussions, especially regarding the control of seed patents and the effect on small-scale farmers. Farmers are often required to buy new seeds each year, which can be more expensive.
Scientific Uncertainty : Some scientists argue that while existing studies show GM crops are generally safe, the science is still developing. Therefore, promoting GM crops widely without understanding all potential risks might not be prudent.
In summary, while genetically modified crops offer significant benefits in terms of productivity and resilience, ongoing and comprehensive studies are needed to fully comprehend their long-term effects on health and environmental sustainability.
