Question

"Biotechnology is not only beneficial but it has some harmful effects too." Express your opinion about this statement.

Answer 1

"Biotechnology is not only beneficial but it has some harmful effects too". Some of the harmful effects that can be associated with the use of biotechnology are as follows:

1. Genetically modified crops can transfer some of their genetic information to other crops in the environment. E.g. a GMO crop that is pesticide resistant may transfer its gene for pesticide resistance to weeds in the neighboring environment, making it difficult for them to be killed or destroyed.
   
2. Genetically modified crops may also adversely affect the conventional crop market since they have a faster growth, more pest resistant and have a higher yield.
3. Genetically modified organisms such as biological agents may be intentionally (for bioterrorism) or unintentionally (modified bacteria or viruses may be accidentally released into the environment) released into the environment. This may adversely affect the environment and humans.