Understanding the Impacts of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) on Agriculture and the Environment: A Review

Authors

  • Nicholas Olsen Department of Agro economics, Oslo Metropolitan University, Norway

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.61424/bjaes.v1i1.61

Keywords:

GMOs, Nutritional content, Pesticide use, Biodiversity, Soil quality

Abstract

This study reviews the existing literature on the impacts of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) on agriculture and the environment. Genetically modified crops have been widely adopted in many countries due to their potential benefits such as increased crop yields, pest resistance, and improved nutritional content. However, concerns have also been raised about the potential negative impacts of GMOs on biodiversity, ecosystems, and human health. The review synthesizes findings from various studies that investigate the effects of GMOs on agricultural productivity, pesticide use, biodiversity, and the spread of genetically modified traits to non-GMO crops. The findings suggest that GMOs can indeed increase crop yields and reduce the need for chemical pesticides. This can lead to economic benefits for farmers and contribute to food security. However, the review also highlights some potential risks. GMOs may have unintended environmental consequences, such as the development of resistance in pests and weeds, increased herbicide use, and cross-pollination with wild relatives. These risks can jeopardize biodiversity and pose challenges for sustainable agriculture in the long term. Additionally, concerns about the safety of GMOs for human consumption and their potential effects on human health remain controversial and require further research. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive understanding of the impacts of GMOs on agriculture and the environment.

Published

2024-05-22

How to Cite

Olsen, N. (2024). Understanding the Impacts of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) on Agriculture and the Environment: A Review. British Journal of Agroecology and Environmental Studies, 1(1), 09–20. https://doi.org/10.61424/bjaes.v1i1.61