Genetically Modified Organisms Changing our Climate

1042 Words3 Pages

Genetically Modified Organisms Changing our Climate

Introduction

“Genetically Modified Organisms”, or in other words GMO, is a method of altering mirco-organisms which include plants, fish, yeast, bacteria and mammals. These organisms have been engineered with increased carbon capacity and a smaller need for nitrogen fertilizers. These organisms are made from the DNA of bacteria and the DNA of other plants and animals. Thus genetically diverse, these various combinations cannot naturally happen in nature. All GMO’s are created to defy any herbicide or insecticide it comes in contact with. GMO’s are the origin of genetically modified foods that we see every day.

Creation of GMO’s

How do you genetically modify an organism? Genetically Modified Organisms are created in many different ways. First, scientists identify the gene or genetic material that could solve the problem and study the genetic makeup of the plant or animal. Second, copy the needed trait from a “donor” organism and implant it into the DNA of the plant of animals that needs it. Finally, plant the seed or raise the animal to see if it worked. Some scientists start the process by genetically engineering bacteria. This “gene shuffling” and other modifications made to the bacteria are then transferred to the target organisms such as plants, fish, mammals and yeast. These modifications require the work of thousands of scientists who are conducting various labs. Genetic modifications have been happening for over forty years.

GMO’s and Climate Change

Although considered faster and cheaper, this approach to providing other alternative resources to food is slowly but significantly drying up our plant and is compromising human health. Because of the increa...

... middle of paper ...

...y modified organisms can not only infiltrate our ecosystem and threaten the natural processes but they can also impose health risks for the living in various areas. In closing, it is important to be aware of the benefits and limitations of genetically modified organisms. The real question is do you want them in your life?

Bibliography

http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2013/03/05/gmo-affects-climate-change.aspx

http://www.nature.com/scitable/topicpage/genetically-modified-organisms-gmos-transgenic-crops-and-732

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Genetically_modified_organism

http://www.nongmoproject.org/learn-more/

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/03/120329171607.htm

http://www.aibs.org/bioscience-editorials/editorial_2011_09.html

http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2013/03/05/gmo-affects-climate-change.aspx

Open Document