Genetically modified (GM) crops continue to receive scientific acclaim for environmental sustainability, and farmers continue to increase their use of the technology worldwide. A recent German report showed that genetically modified crops have contributed to a 37 percent reduction in pesticide use and 22 percent higher yields. Also farmers around the world grew 3 percent more biotech crops (175.2 million hectares/433 million acres) in 2013 as compared to 2012, setting a new record for planted acreage, according to the International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications (ISAAA).

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Impacts of GM crop adoption. Average percentage differences between GM and non-GM crops are shown. Results refer to all GM crops, including herbicide-tolerant and insect-resistant traits. The number of observations varies by outcome variable; yield: 451; pesticide quantity: 121; pesticide cost: 193; total production cost: 115; farmer profit: 136. *** indicates statistical significance at the 1% level.
doi: 10.1271/journal.pone.0111629.g002

“Farmers are very smart business men and women who plant genetically modified seed because it helps them increase yields, lower production costs, reduce the use of agricultural chemicals and enhance the quality of their grain,” said Andrew Conner, U.S. Grains Council manager of global biotechnology. “In the year 2000, 25 percent of corn acres in the United States were planted with genetically engineered varieties. This year, that number has reached 93 percent.” 

Biotech crops are a tool for farmers around the world who are trying to increase yields while facing shrinking water supplies and increased weed and pest pressures. Both the agronomic and economic benefits of GM crops are large and significant. 

An increasing number of countries are accepting biotechnology, which enables farmers to meet the challenges of feeding a rapidly growing world population while conserving natural resources. For instance in 2013, biotech plantings in China grew 5 percent and five European Union countries planted 15 percent more biotech corn than was planted in 2012.

Responsible scientific and regulatory authorities around the world have recognized that biotech crops are wholesome, nutritious and equally safe compared to conventional crops for people, livestock and the environment. As such, it is important for the U.S. government to vigorously defend U.S.-approved agricultural biotechnology products from unreasonable, non-science based trade barriers.

If the global agricultural community can agree on biotech policies that are science-based, risk-appropriate and consistent, ease of grains exports and trade will help to ensure a reliable supply for feed and food uses, lower costs and enhanced diets.