Hazards of biotechnology

Nature

Biotechnology is the application of biological and technical solutions to problems, and often refers to the industrial use of microorganisms (perhaps genetically altered) to perform chemical processing, for example of waste or water, or to manufacture hormones or enzymes for medicinal and commercial purposes.

One of the main areas where the development of biotechnology is raising concern is in agriculture. Those opposed to its development warn that dominant agricultural systems are becoming over-artifical and can transmit such traits to the natural system. Transgenes can spread to certain weeds creating herbicide resistant plants and the mutation of resistant pests. Present understanding of biology and ecosystems cannot predict the impact of biotechnology on the environment.

Background

The hazards of biotechnology emerged as a global concern in the 1970s, following the advent of recombinant DNA technology and the first genetically modified organisms. Initial debates among scientists and policymakers highlighted potential risks, prompting international conferences and regulatory frameworks. Over subsequent decades, incidents involving accidental releases, bioethical controversies, and the rapid proliferation of biotechnologies intensified scrutiny, leading to broader recognition of their transboundary implications for health, environment, and security worldwide.

Incidence

Two genetically engineered crop species -- a tomato and rapeseed -- both resistant to the antibiotic kanamycin, have been approved for commercial use in the UK. There is concern that the antibiotic resistance could be transferred to other organisms, for example stomach bacteria, which might reduce the clinical use of kanamycin in the treatment of tuberculosis.

Claim

The rush into biotechnology, through patents, is anti-research, anti-science and anti-democratic. It breaks with the traditions of research being done in pursuit of a cure, not a fortune; of farmers saving seeds, propagating plants and sharing them as protection against the larger, unpredictable forces of nature. These cures and the seeds have always been part of the global commons. Patenting has distorted our understanding of this.

Counter-claim

The so-called "hazards of biotechnology" are vastly overstated and do not constitute an important problem. Modern regulations, scientific oversight, and technological advancements ensure safety and minimize risks. Fears about biotechnology are often rooted in misinformation and sensationalism rather than evidence. Instead of worrying about hypothetical dangers, we should focus on the immense benefits biotechnology brings to medicine, agriculture, and the environment. The real problem is ignoring its potential, not fearing its hazards.