Humans and the Environment - L4

Which of the following statements about the impact of biotechnology on the environment is NOT true?

• Biotechnology can positively impact the environment through the use of organisms that degrade pollutants.
• Biotechnology use can lead to an increase in soil erosion and pollution runoff through decreased pesticide use.
• The use of biotechnology in agriculture can lead to a decrease in pesticide use, positively impacting the environment.
• Biotechnology can lead to greater competition among natural and genetically engineered organisms in an ecosystem.

The USDA has approved over 10,000 genetically engineered crops.

• True
• False

Biotechnology can possibly be used to degrade pollutants in estuaries.

• True
• False

Scientific advances have led to decreased energy efficiency and waste reduction.

• True
• False

Which of the following is NOT a possible application for biotechnology?

• crop production
• metal alloys
• pollution control
• medications

How can genetic engineering help improve crop production?

• Genetic engineering can eliminate the threat of disease to crops.
• Genetic engineering removes the need of plants for watering.
• Genetic engineering can help reduce the effects of pests and weather on crop production.
• Genetic engineerign can make crops more susceptible to herbicides.

Which of the following is a risk associated with the application of biotechnology?

• decreased pesticide use
• decreased erosion
• increased agricultural yield
• potential for the exchange of genetic material

When biotechnology is used in agricultural fields, it is generally more harmful than beneficial.

• True
• False

Which of the following is a way that scientific advancements have benefited society?

• increased energy efficiency
• increased resource use
• increased urbanization
• changes in the global climate

Biotechnology use can lead to a decrease in pesticide and herbicide use, maintaining soil quality.

• True
• False