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Web version of an article published in the Cambridge Evening News on 6th June 2003
Most genetically modified (GM – also called ‘genetically engineered’) crops grown today were developed in the United States; and North America still produces the overwhelming majority of GM crops. A recent report of the actual experiences of North American farmers reveals that ‘virtually every benefit claimed for GM crops has not occurred’.
Safety for health and environment: Gene technology is still imprecise, and the consequences of insertion of foreign genes are still not fully known or understood. Genetic engineering is no more an extension of traditional breeding than nuclear energy generation is an extension of wood-burning Very many anecdotes tell of animals refusing to eat GM feed or losing weight when they are forced to do so. Government regulatory bodies apply a ‘fast track’ procedure for approval, even against the warnings of government scientists. Some scientists have warned that viral components involved in gene insertion could lead to the creation of new and dangerous viruses, even cancer.
Yields and chemical use: Extensive studies have shown that farmers often suffer lower yields and use far more pesticides and herbicides than they would on non-GM crops. Spectacular failures have occurred. Insect populations tend to develop resistance to GM ‘inbuilt’ pesticides, and superweeds result when multiple herbicide-resistance is acquired.
World hunger: Biotechnology companies claim that Europe’s rejection of GM crops will prevent them saving the world from hunger. Yet the world already produces an abundance of food for everyone; the problem is one of poverty and unequal distribution of food. Moreover, poor farmers can ill afford to pay for GM licence fees, patented seeds and the chemicals to go with them. Adoption of organic methods has increased yields, sometimes by factors of two or three. These small farms also produce the diversity of crops and of nutrients necessary to avoid deficiencies. GM ‘vitamin A’ rice is then superfluous.
Contamination by GM crops: Contamination by GM crops has become widespread in North America. An organic certifying body in the United States has said that it believes GM-free seeds of the major crops can no longer be found. GM contamination of oilseed rape has caused the virtual collapse of the organic growing of this crop in one Canadian province. Canadian farmers are now seeking an injunction against the introduction of GM wheat. Soil organisms have been found to be affected by GM crops, and this might lead to progressive decline of soil fertility.
Who is responsible for damage?: In spite of their assurances that GM products are safe, the GM companies have consistently refused to accept responsibility for damage that might be caused by their crops. Even the pro-GM Royal Society evidently still harbours doubts about safety to human health and the environment, advocating that these should be monitored if GM crops are introduced into this country. ‘Prevention is better than cure’, and this is especially true in the case of GM crops, where there may be no cure.
Web sites:
www.sgr.org.uk (includes references to the Chardon LL Hearing}
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For further information contact Dr Eva Novotny, SGR Co-ordinator for GM Issues Send correspondence about the web-site to This page last modified: 6th June 2003 © SGR 1997-2003 |
