Final answer:
Genetic engineering in agriculture leads to the creation of genetically modified organisms, such as transgenic crops. These crops can be pest and herbicide resistant, enhancing agricultural productivity. Safety and efficacy concerns persist, but such crops are essential tools for meeting global food production demands.
Step-by-step explanation:
Genetic engineering refers to the methods that scientists use to introduce new traits into organisms. This field has particularly profound applications in agriculture, resulting in the creation of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), including transgenic crops. For example, crops such as soybeans and corn have been modified to be resistant to pests and herbicides, significantly altering agricultural practices.
The safety of genetically engineered (GE) crops for the environment and ecosystems has been a subject of debate, though many authoritative institutions such as the US National Academy of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine affirm that GE crops are safe. Nonetheless, while these crops have helped reduce pesticide use and agricultural loss due to pests, they have not significantly increased crop yields compared to non-GE crops. Additionally, the potential for GE crops to improve nutrition or combat plant diseases has seen limited realization apart from a few exceptions like virus-resistant papayas or golden rice.
Overall, GE crops are an essential tool in addressing challenges brought about by climate change and a growing population, but they must be complemented by other agricultural methods to ensure sustainable food production and environmental conservation.