Genetically Modified Organisms
By: Dakota M, Ederick O, Tristan S
Definition
When a gene from one organism is purposely moved to improve or change another organism in a laboratory, the result is a genetically modified organism (GMO).
Why GMOs are an Issue?
Because of the risk that the modified genes could spread to native plants.
Where GMOs are being Produced?
GMOs are being produced in laboratories and are being tested in greenhouses.
Crops Most Effected By GMOs
Corn, potatoes, cotton are a few of the most effected plants.
How big is the Problem, and how Quickly is it Spreading?
It's spread over 26 countries, and it is increasing in slowly in popularity.
The Controversies over GMOs
Con- Alternations can change an organism's metabolism, growth rate, and its response to external environmental factors.
Pro- Protection from disease, bugs, reduce pesticide exposure to farmers and non-target organisms.
Does it Directly Effect the Community? How?
What is Being Done to Address the Issue?
Yes, scientists have limited the cons of GMOs and people who don't like GMOs have an organically grow foods market available to them.
Is Progress Being Made to Solve the Promblem
They are making new GMOs to stop them from spreading their genetics to other native species.
Is the Problem Better or Worse than 10 Years Ago?
The problem is better here in the US than it was ten years ago and seems like it will continue to improve.
Can You do Something to help be a Part of the Solution?
Buy only organically grow farmer food, or donate to a GMO organization to help them study and create better GMOs.
Extra Facts
- GMO seeds are not sterile, they are germinated like any other plant seed.
- Contamination of organic crops by GMOs will do nothing to the crop.
- Most seeds now a days are genetically modified.