Provide at least two ways the use of this biotechnology could benefit socity and two ways this biotechnology could be harmful.
My topic is agricultural and environmental uses.
Lots of reading involved --
http://www.google.com/search?source=ig&hl=en&rlz=1G1GGLQ_ENUS360&q=biotechnology+agriculture+environment
I have looked the website and having trouble with this so please help me
Try this site.
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_are_the_pros_and_cons_of_biotechnology
Biotechnology refers to the application of biological knowledge and techniques to develop new products and processes. In the context of agricultural and environmental uses, biotechnology can have both beneficial and potentially harmful impacts. Here are two ways biotechnology can benefit society in these fields, followed by two ways it can be harmful:
1. Benefits:
- Improved Crop Yield: Biotechnology can be used to develop genetically modified (GM) crops that have enhanced characteristics, such as resistance to pests, diseases, and harsh environmental conditions. These crops can potentially increase yields, ensuring food security and reducing hunger.
- Environmental Conservation: Biotechnology can contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers. For example, genetically engineered crops can produce their own toxins to ward off pests, minimizing the need for chemical insecticides and conserving biodiversity.
2. Harmful Impacts:
- Genetic Contamination: One potential concern with genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is the possibility of gene flow between genetically engineered crops and their wild relatives. This can result in the spread of modified genes to environments where they may not be desired, potentially disrupting natural ecosystems.
- Loss of Genetic Diversity: Biotechnology has the potential to reduce genetic diversity within a species by favoring specific genetically modified varieties over traditional varieties. This could increase the vulnerability of crops to disease outbreaks, pests, and changing environmental conditions.
It is important to note that determining the benefits and potential harms of biotechnology requires considering specific contexts, regulations, and long-term monitoring of the environmental, health, and socio-economic impacts.