Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
against insects.
Bt
crops proved to be highly beneficial tools for
the integrated pest management program by providing farm-
ers with new pest control strategies (Zhe and Mitchell, 2011).
For example, transgenic canola (oilseed rape) and soybean have
been modified to be resistant to specific herbicides (Bonny,
2008). Also, GM cassava, potatoes, bananas and other crops
that are resistant to fungi, bacteria and viruses are in develop-
ment; some have already been commercialised while others are
undergoing field trials (Van Camp, 2005). Studies carried out
between 2002 and 2005 found that biotic stress-resistant GM
crops account for an increase in the average yield of 11-12%
for canola and maize compared to conventional crops (Brookes
and Barfoot, 2008, 2009; Gomez-Barbero et al., 2008).
6.6
Conclusion
The development and application of plant biotechnology can
contribute optimistically towards climate change adaptation and
mitigation through reduction of CO
2
emissions, carbon seques-
tration, reduced fuel use, adoption of environmentally friendly
fuels and reduced artificial fertiliser use, employing biofuels
for improved soil fertility and crop adaptability. These proce-
dures, on the one hand, help in improving agricultural produc-
tivity and food security, whereas on the other hand protect our
environment from adverse effects of climate change. There is
harmony among scientific groups that climate variability is a
result of direct and indirect anthropogenic activities. An inte-
grated approach combining both the conventional and modern
agricultural biotechnology approaches will not only contribute
to increased yield and food security, but also significantly con-
tribute to climate change adaptation and mitigation initiatives.
Acknowledgements
PKJ and PC sincerely acknowledge the financial support pro-
vided by ICAR and the support provided by project director,
NRC on Plant Biotechnology. DKS acknowledges the support
and encouragement provided by the director, IARI.
References
Bartels B, Sunkar R 2005. Drought and salt tolerance in plants.
Crit. Rev. Plant Sci.
, 24: 23-58.
