Genetically modified crops can ‘significantly’ benefit the environment, a report has said. Experts at PG Economics in Dorset said GM crops had contributed to reducing the release of greenhouse gas emissions from agricultural practices.
In their report, GM crops: global socio-economic and environmental impacts 1996-2009, they said the reduction was equivalent to removing 7.8 million cars from the road for one year.
The Agricultural Biotechnology Council’s Mark Buckingham said: “This report demonstrates yet again the benefits associated with the use of GM technology - based on the experiences of its widespread use over the past 15 years in countries such as the USA, Argentina and South Africa. Not only does GM boost farm incomes, it can also play a significant role in reducing the environmental impact of farming, helping to meet emissions reductions targets.”
Mr Buckingham said while GM crops were not a ‘silver bullet’ which could provide all the answers to the impact of agriculture on the environment, they, along with a range of other tools, can be part of the solution through using resources more efficiently.
“ABC looks forward to a time when European policy markers recognise the inherent benefits and track record of safety associated with the technology and implement a sensible regulatory framework for its potential to be realised,” Mr Buckingham added.
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