EuropaBio

GM Crops: Higher Yields And Important Pesticide Reduction Confirmed By Researchers

As independent scientists and agronomists know from their research and their experience in the field, genetically modified (GM) crops allow the farmer to considerably increase productivity. They are also beneficial to the environment, as the use of herbicides and insecticides can significantly be reduced. A report dated June 25th 1999 from the Economic Research Service (ERS) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture now provides relevant data supporting this view.

The ERS reports that since the commercial introduction of GM cotton in the US three years ago, the use of nearly 1 million gallons of chemical insecticides has been eliminated (1 gallon = about 4 litres). The introduction of insect protected potatoes has significantly reduced chemical use in 1998 by as much as 750,000 pounds or by an average of 80 percent on more than 55,000 acres (2.5 acres = about 1 hectare). As for herbicide tolerant soy and corn crops, they need 30 percent less herbicides at least.

The ERS report associates the use of GM cotton and corn with significantly higher yields in a number of regions in most years, whereas herbicide tolerance in soybeans is associated with higher yields in some regions as well. According to the ERS analysis, the adoption of genetically engineered technology on soybeans, cotton and corn in the USA has drastically increased since its introduction in the mid-nineties, encompassing 20-44 percent of acreage planted in 1998.

More information about increased productivity and environmental benefits of GM crops is to be found on the website of the US Department of Agriculture: http://www.econ.ag.gov/whatsnew/issues/biotech