Around the web

Recent or not, I thought I’d start pointing out some things I’ve been reading around the web. Today I thought I’d highlight a few things I’ve read on genetically-modified crops and its acceptance or resistance around the world.

“UK government enthusiasm for GM not matched in developing countries,” The Guardian, Jan. 4, 2012 – This is an interesting column with a good round-up of different opinions around the world.

“Seeds of suicide,” Guernica, June 15, 2010 – While this is an “old” article, I was deeply disturbed when I read this article about Indian suicides after farmers’ attempts at using GM cotton have failed so miserably.

“Feast your eyes: The atlas of genetically modified crops,” Good.is, February 23, 2011 – This shows what percentage of crops in countries around the world is GM crops.

“Seed of change: America may shift its policy on GM crops,” The Economist, January 6, 2011 – This introduces the possibility of a policy change on the growth of GM alfalfa due to concerns that GM crops need to be able to coexist with organic or conventional crops.

I’d love to hear what others think about GM crops since the US is the most active country to use these seeds. I personally have concerns about the environmental implications, corporation corruption and loss of freedom that many farmers face today because of GM crops. However, I’m also not sure how we could even turn back the clock on this choice. Additionally, while it is an interesting solution for developing countries because of the possibility for higher yield crops, I think we should approach it cautiously especially since it is an issue that has already caused some contention in the developed world. Thoughts?