Global aspects of the debate on biotechnology

The effect of biotechnology on the human health and the environment was analyzed. Research and development is being done to improve nutrition, to reduce the use of synthetic chemicals, to increase the productivity of farmlands and forests, and to improve human health. The ecosystems will be positively affected by biotechnology as the genetically modified crops will result in reduced use of chemical pesticides, the productivity of the food crops will increase, and the development of herbicide tolerant varieties of food crops will enable adoption of low and zero tillage systems. Genetic modification will increase the growth rates of some native tree species, making them suitable for commercial growing.