Final answer:
The diffusion of crops is considered an environmental effect. This includes the introduction of genetically engineered crops which may influence biodiversity and affect ecosystems. Research and summarized reports detail the environmental impacts and the importance of resilient crop species for food security.
Step-by-step explanation:
The diffusion of crops can be considered an environmental effect because it involves changes in land use, potential alterations in ecological balance, and impacts on biodiversity. When genetically engineered crops are introduced to an environment, they may offer advantages such as resistance to pests and the ability to grow in harsher climates. However, there are concerns about their safety for the environment, including the potential harm to other organisms or ecosystems. These concerns are addressed through hundreds of studies, and the National Academy of Sciences reports summarize research findings. Moreover, adopting more resilient crop species can provide improved food security and nutrition, especially for farmers in impoverished areas. However, this can also lead to monocultures, reinforcing genetic homogeneity and leading to a loss of crop diversity, an effect known as a loss of biodiversity.