Analysis of the possible impacts associatedwith the introduction of geneticallymodified crops in El Salvador

Abstract

The present investigation aimed to evaluate the possible impacts associated with introducing genetically modified crops in El Salvador. It’s important to mention that this topic is largely ignored in the national context, whereby disinformation or the existence of an ideological bias has been avoided to contemplate the introduction of GMOs (Genetically Modified Crops) to the Salvadoran agricultural system, stalling the national production, food in particular. Through specific consultations with experts in the subject matter and a subsequent literature review, an analysis of the impacts involved in introducing GMOs in El Salvador was carried out, where three impacts were delimited: Socioeconomic, political, and environmental. Having positive consequences in the Salvadoran productive system, particularly in the correct usage of technologies like genetically modified corn due to the lack of usage of insecticides and a reduction of the workforce, as well as the revitalization of novel industries, like cotton, bean, and fodder. In political terms, it’s important to consider the possible beneficiaries of these technologies, like the real impact they would entail. Finally, there wasn’t a difference in environmental terms between the production of genetically modified crops and non-genetically modified crops, with the only difference being the reduction of insecticide usage.