How can engineered crop genes spread to native plants?

Engineered genes from genetically modified (GM) crops can spread to native plants primarily through cross-pollination, a process where pollen is transferred between plants.12

When GM crops are grown in proximity to wild or native relatives, pollen—which carries the plant's genetic material—can be transported by wind or animal pollinators (such as bees, birds, or bats) to the flowers of nearby native plants. If the two plants are sexually compatible, cross-fertilization can occur, potentially resulting in the transfer of the transgene into the native population.123

This movement of genetic material is a significant consideration in assessing the environmental safety of genetically modified organisms. The potential for engineered genes to enter wild populations raises concerns regarding the inadvertent loss of biodiversity and the long-term ecological impact of introducing modified traits, such as herbicide resistance or insecticidal toxin production, into non-agricultural environments. Because of these risks, the release of transgenic plants is subject to regulatory oversight by various government agencies to safeguard the environment.24