Initially, genetically engineered, herbicide-resistant and insect-resistant crops were created for the purpose of conserving fuel, reducing tillage and to decrease the overall use of insecticides. This strategy was the premise for the successful sale of this technology within the global agricultural sector. Almost two decades later, there is a big question as to whether or not this technology has been able to deliver the promises it has made. What exactly has happened over the last 16 years?

As the increased use of applications of neonicotinoids continues, commercial beekeepers are facing record bee losses. There is also great concern regarding the impact on human health as the demand to create transparency in food labeling continues what appears to be an uphill battle, especially with the failure to pass Prop 37 in the state of California which would have mandated gmo labeling.

In this special series called “The Neonicotinoid View”, hosts, June Stoyer and Tom Theobald will talk to Dr. Charles Benbrook, about his research on gmo’s, the impact on the environment and on human health. Stay tuned!

Dr. Benbrook has published peer reviewed articles in multiple disciplines including agricultural biotechnology, pesticide use and residues in food, soil and water conservation, pesticide risk assessment methods, Integrated Pest Management, germplasm conservation, scientific basis for evaluating agricultural technologies, antibiotic use and resistance, food safety, international agricultural development, sustainable agriculture, and agricultural policy., especially since these agro-chemicals are granted registration by the regulatory agencies without fulfilling the required process.