Work

Ecosystem impacts of pesticide reductions through Bt cotton adoption

Year: 2016

Type: article

Abstract: This article examines the ecosystem impacts of transgenic Bt cotton technology resulting from reduced chemical pesticide use. Employing unique panel data from smallholder farmers in India, negative environmental and health effects of pesticide use are quantified with the environmental impact quotient (EIQ), with and without Bt technology. An environmentally sensitive dynamic production function is estimated, treating the environmental risk of pesticide toxicity as an undesirable output in the production process. Negative externalities are significantly lower in Bt than in conventional cotton. The reduction in EIQ through Bt technology adoption has increased from 39 per cent during 2002–2004 to 68 per cent during 2006–2008. Bt adoption has also contributed to higher environmental efficiency. Environmental efficiency is influenced by the quality of Bt technology: high-quality Bt seeds are associated with higher environmental efficiency than lower-quality seeds.

Source: Australian Journal of Agricultural and Resource Economics

DOI: 10.1111/1467-8489.12171

Authors: Prakashan Chellattan Veettil, Vijesh V. Krishna, Matin Qaim

Institutions: University of Delhi, International Rice Research Institute, University of Göttingen

Language: English

Topic: Genetically Modified Organisms Research

Subfield: Plant Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Zero hunger, Responsible consumption and production, Life on land

Open Access status: green

Funder: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft