The increasing frequency and intensity of droughts, as highlighted in successive IPCC reports, pose a significant challenge to global food security and ecosystem stability. Developing drought-resistant crops is crucial, and advancements in genetic engineering offer promising solutions. However, the ethical implications of deploying such technologies warrant careful consideration. The IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) has consistently emphasized the accelerating impact of climate change, with droughts featuring prominently as a major consequence. These reports detail the projected increase in arid and semi-arid regions, threatening agricultural productivity and biodiversity. Scientific breakthroughs in genetic modification have yielded crop varieties exhibiting enhanced drought tolerance, promising to mitigate these risks. These genetically modified (GM) crops often incorporate genes from other organisms, granting them superior water-use efficiency or the ability to withstand prolonged periods without water. While the potential benefits are substantial, particularly for vulnerable populations in drought-prone areas, concerns remain regarding the long-term ecological consequences and the potential for unforeseen risks. Some argue that the focus should be on sustainable agricultural practices, such as improved water management techniques, rather than relying solely on technological fixes. Furthermore, the potential for corporate control over the seed supply and the equitable access to these technologies for farmers in developing countries pose significant ethical dilemmas. The debate surrounding GM crops touches upon broader issues of technological ethics. It highlights the tension between the potential for technological solutions to alleviate pressing global challenges and the responsibility to carefully assess potential unintended consequences. Transparency in research and development, robust risk assessment procedures, and inclusive discussions involving scientists, policymakers, and affected communities are essential to navigate these complex ethical landscapes. The long-term sustainability of these technologies, their impact on biodiversity, and the potential for economic disparities all require careful consideration before widespread implementation.
1. According to the passage, what is a major concern regarding the use of genetically modified drought-resistant crops?
2. What role does the IPCC play in the context of the passage?
3. Which of the following best summarizes the central argument of the passage?
4. The passage suggests that a responsible approach to deploying GM drought-resistant crops requires: