Mackelprang, R. (2018, October 10). Organic farming with gene editing: An oxymoron or a tool for sustainable agriculture? Retrieved from http://theconversation.com/organic-farming-with-gene-editing-an-oxymoron-or-a-tool-for-sustainable-agriculture-101585
The article begins by making distinctions between genetic engineering, genetic modification, and the use of the CRISPR tool. Specifically, the CRISPR tool allows for more precise gene editing, and it expands the possibilities of transgenic modification. California seems to be becoming rather interested in this technology and similar technologies, evidenced by the large number of gene editing startups based in California. Interest grows, especially given the recent droughts, “Corn with greater yield under drought stress has already been made using CRISPR.”
As with much of the genetic engineering that occurs in plants and animals, the ultimate goal is to profit from these modifications by introducing them into the market. Wild debate is ongoing about the safety of genetic modification, this article presents the case for the benefits of this technology in California, given California’s growing population and its agricultural demands. Genetically engineered crops have the potential to reduce land usage an insecticide use.
It’s really interesting the technology usually geared towards advancement within humans can be crossapplied to plants. Are there any other places interested in doing this as well for agricultural enhancements?
Especially in California and the Silicon Valley, technology has been a successful and celebrated part of making progress in many sectors, such as business and different services for people. Like you mentioned, genetic engineered crops could have benefits, especially in California with the issues of drought and population growth. Using new technology on living creatures is definitely more controversial. I wonder if genetic modification just has a bad reputation, or if it going too far.