Genetic Engineering in Agriculture: The Myths, Environmental Risks, and Alternatives

Miguel Altieri | 10.01.2004

As debate rages over the costs and benefits of genetically engineered crops, noted agroecologist Miguel Altieri lucidly examines some of the issue’s most basic and pressing questions:

  • Are transgenic crops similar to conventionally bred crops?
  • Are transgenic crops safe to eat?
  • Does biotechnology increase yields?
  • Does it reduce pesticide use?
  • What are the costs to American farmers?
  • Will biotechnology benefit poor farmers?
  • Can biotechnology coexist with other forms of agriculture?
  • What are the known and potential environmental and biological risks?
  • What alternatives do we have to genetically modified crops?

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