Spain saved nearly 200 million euros thanks to genetically modified corn

Saving 156 million Euro, equivalent to nearly 4,500 billion VND; C0 ₂ emissions reduction is a remarkable achievement from the commercialization of genetically modified corn borer in Spain over the past 15 years.

On the occasion of the 15th anniversary (1998-2013) the genetically modified corn plant against stem borers officially allowed to be planted in Spain, the Antama Foundation has just released a report of 15 years of growing genetically modified corn in Spain Social and economic benefits' , chaired by economic doctoral Laura Riesgo from Oveido University.

The report is a complete study with an overview of science-based reviews. This is also considered the first research result, specifically analyzing the benefits of the application of genetically modified corn against stem borers in Spain.

The report concluded that the application of planting genetically modified corn against stem borers in Spain helped the country reduce more than 850,000 tons of imported corn from 1998 to 2013, thereby saving about 156 million euros.

A genetically modified corn.(Photo: motherearthnews.com)

In the past 15 years, genetically modified corn has helped Spain produce an additional 853,201 tons of corn corn. Genetically modified corn also helps to increase carbon fixation, equivalent to about 662,937 tons of CO2 (net mass), which means reducing greenhouse gas emissions from 22,934 cars. every year in Spain.

The economic benefits resulting from the application of genetically modified corn against stem borers are low investment costs due to the reduction of pesticide dosage used, reduced input costs; At the same time, increasing productivity is due to ensuring that the harvest yield is not lost due to the effects of mold (mycotoxins) and corn borer.

According to the report, genetically modified corn also helps to limit adverse effects on some beneficial insects. The average yield increased by 7.38% to 10.53% depending on the location of cultivation and the level of pests and diseases in each crop.

According to scientists, the biggest benefit of genetically modified corn is the net profit growth that farmers get compared to traditional corn. On average, each hectare of transgenic corn will bring about 147 euros (4.2 million VND) to farmers. Along with the economic benefits, genetically modified corn cultivation also helps farmers more easily and conveniently in the care and prevention of pests and diseases.

Recently, announcing a genetically modified corn could cause cancer mice to be the first study on the left side of a genetically modified crop, drawn by a famous scientific journal. The author is Gilles Eric Séralini, from the University of Cannes. This information also met opposition from many scientists around the world."There is very little scientific evidence in research , " said biotechnology expert Martina Newell-McGloughlin, University of California, USA.