Publisher's Synopsis
Amongst the many contributions of science and technology to the latter half of the twentieth century, the most groundbreaking, as well as headline courting is that of genetic engineering. It is the science of modifications made in the gene of living organisms to suit human needs. While it has produced valuable additions to various fields of human activity, it has not been able to dodge controversies. The environmental and ecological concerns potentially associated with Genetically Modified (GM) Crops are evaluated prior to their release. In addition, post-approval monitoring and good agricultural systems need to be in place to detect and minimize potential risks, as well as to ensure that GM crops continue to be safe after their release. Comparisons among GM, conventional, and other agricultural practices, such as organic farming, will bring to light the relative risks and benefits of adopting GM crops. This handbook examines the science of genetic engineering, genetically modified crops, and the implications of the science in an ethical light. The impact on environment of these GMOs assumes primary importance in this context, and the issues has bee probed into deeply. With its comprehensive exploration of the issue of GMOs and consequent impacts and mitigation strategies, the handbook should prove to be of immense interest to students, faculty, and researchers in the field.
