Britannica
Sources used in this answer
- genetically modified organism: Top Questions
- Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) - Con 3: GMO crops can harm the environment through the increased use of toxic herbicides and pesticides.
- genetic engineering - Controversy and ethical issues
- Plant disease - The use of genetic engineering in developing disease-resistant plants
- genetically modified organism - Sociopolitical relevance of GMOs
- gene editing
What environmental concerns have been raised about releasing genetically modified organisms?
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gene editing
The CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing complex from the bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes.
The release of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) into the environment has raised several significant ecological concerns. Because these organisms are engineered with specific traits, their introduction into natural ecosystems can have unintended consequences.12
Key environmental concerns include:
- Impact on Biodiversity: There is a risk that engineered genes may escape into wild populations, potentially disrupting native flora and fauna. Furthermore, the use of herbicide-tolerant crops can reduce weed diversity in and around fields, which diminishes the habitat and food sources available for other species.134
- Increased Chemical Use: Many GMO crops are engineered to be herbicide-resistant, which has led to the widespread use of chemicals like glyphosate. This increased reliance on herbicides can harm non-target organisms, such as pollinating insects, and negatively impact local wildlife, including amphibians, when chemicals run off into nearby water sources.4
- Evolution of Resistance: The use of GMOs has contributed to the development of herbicide-resistant "super-weeds" and insecticide-resistant "superbugs," which may necessitate the use of even more potent agricultural chemicals.43
- Introduction of Harmful Traits: Concerns exist regarding the potential for microorganisms to develop unintended traits, such as antibiotic resistance or the production of toxins.2