BIOTECHNOLOGY 2
Biotechnology Agriculture
A major issue in biotechnology agriculture is the prevalence of genetically modified
plants over the past few years. GM crops are now being cultivated into large portions of land and
are becoming a huge part of the food chain in many areas of the world. There have been
increased debates over the effects of GM crops to the environment. While proponents of GM
crops point to their solution to the global food shortage in the long run, there are still major
concerns about new risks they may pose to the environment, food security, and many other
harmful effects.
The biotechnology of GM crops presents many agricultural issues that should concern
emergency managers. Today, more and more farmers and scientists all over the globe are
advocating for these crops, despite their limitations. Firstly, the introduction of these foods
results into the emergence of superpests and harmful weeds, which affect the capability for other
plants to grow effectively (Maghari & Ardekani, 2011). This presents new risks to the global
food security. Secondly, they result into increased risks of antibiotic resistance by plants and
animals. This may in the long run lead to food allergies and major health concerns. GM crops
also contribute to a decline in biodiversity and risk to overall environmental health.
Emergency managers should pay more attention to the emergence of genetically modified
crops. In spite of the limitations, there are some likely benefits that may result from GM crops.
These include the potential to address global food shortage, therefore acting as a means for
poverty eradication, and benefits to the environment. However, it is evident that the limitations
of these crops outweigh their benefits, and measures should be put in place to ensure that this
does not negatively impact the overall agricultural and environmental system.
