Genetically modified organisms or GMO’s are agricultural products such as corn, tomatoes, and rice that have been genetically “modified” for the benefit of the crop itself. In a debate between Mark Lynas, an environmental writer and GMO supporter, and Colin Tudge, GMO critic and biologist, the good and very few bad characteristics of GMO’s are thoroughly covered in a debate between the two. GMO’s are a healthy alternative to regular produce, and they are better for people and the environment. They can be modified in a way to make the crop resistant to insects so pesticides do not need to be used as much. Modified crops produce larger and healthier products. This helps people become healthier by having vitamins added to their daily diet with the fortified produce. Also, these modified crops are better for people and the environment, and many studies have been conducted on GMO’s and so far, no health concerns have been found. …show more content…
The problem with pesticides is that when it rains, the rain washes the harmful chemicals off the produce. This causes the now chemical filled runoff water to then soak into our streams, lakes, and drinking wells. A solution to this problem is to have a Genetically Modified crop. With a GM crop, the farmer can purchase seeds that have had their genes modified so that they are already resistant to pests. This will drastically reduce the amount of pesticides used and, in turn, be better for the environment. “Industry has argued that we need GM foods because they will reduce production costs by reducing the need for additional chemicals (pesticides and fertilizers). Theoretically, these cost savings could be passed on to the consumer” (Schneider