What does genetic modification in crops aim to achieve?

Genetic modification in crops aims to introduce desirable traits such as pest resistance, which significantly enhances agricultural productivity and sustainability. This biotechnological approach allows scientists to directly modify the genetic makeup of a plant, enabling them to incorporate specific genes that confer advantageous traits. For example, traits such as resistance to insects, diseases, or herbicides can be introduced, reducing the need for chemical pesticides and leading to lower production costs and environmental impacts.

By enhancing pest resistance, crops can endure adverse pressures from pests that would otherwise cause substantial damage, ensuring higher yields and better food security. This targeted modification makes crops more resilient and can sometimes allow for reduced input of resources such as water and fertilizers, since healthier plants can make more efficient use of these inputs.

While improving aesthetics, altering seasonal growth patterns, and increasing water usage efficiency can have their benefits, the primary focus and most common application of genetic modification in agriculture is to introduce specific desirable traits that directly support crop productivity and environmental resilience.