The issue of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) stems from its introduction in the mid-1990s. These genetic modifications allow for crops to become more resistant to drought, diseases, herbicides, and infestations, making it possible to grow food in environments which would otherwise be unsuitable. This creates what some researchers say 17% more food than without GMOs. GMO foods can have vitamins and minerals added to them to provide greater nutritional benefits to consumers. This is especially beneficial to developing countries who struggle with getting adequate resources (Technology). On the other hand, by growing plants or raising livestock in environments that normally would not support them, it is possible that environment will be damaged, for example, leading to the creation of weeds that are resistant to herbicides. There also are studies that the consumption of GMOs can lead to the increase of food allergies in people (Pros and Cons). In , the topic of foodstuffs is a vital portion of Aruban culture and economy. Aruba’s economy is fueled by tourism, as is a very popular country to visit all times of the years. As a result, a constant supply of food is incredibly crucial to feed and impress tourists. GMO foods are therefore a necessity in in order to keep its economy going (Government). As the yield for GMO crops are higher, it is often cheaper to import than non-GMO foods, which benefits ’s economy very much. However, because Aruba is under the control of the Netherlands, which as a member of the EU has a more strict policy towards GMO foods, a labeling system of GMOs has been set up in Aruba, giving the consumer the choice of whether or not he/she chooses to eat GMOs (Labelling). In this aspect, Aruba agrees with the policies of the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, which states that countries maintain the right to deny imports of a certain GMO it does not believe has enough research done on to ensure its health safety. believes this balance of
The issue of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) stems from its introduction in the mid-1990s. These genetic modifications allow for crops to become more resistant to drought, diseases, herbicides, and infestations, making it possible to grow food in environments which would otherwise be unsuitable. This creates what some researchers say 17% more food than without GMOs. GMO foods can have vitamins and minerals added to them to provide greater nutritional benefits to consumers. This is especially beneficial to developing countries who struggle with getting adequate resources (Technology). On the other hand, by growing plants or raising livestock in environments that normally would not support them, it is possible that environment will be damaged, for example, leading to the creation of weeds that are resistant to herbicides. There also are studies that the consumption of GMOs can lead to the increase of food allergies in people (Pros and Cons). In , the topic of foodstuffs is a vital portion of Aruban culture and economy. Aruba’s economy is fueled by tourism, as is a very popular country to visit all times of the years. As a result, a constant supply of food is incredibly crucial to feed and impress tourists. GMO foods are therefore a necessity in in order to keep its economy going (Government). As the yield for GMO crops are higher, it is often cheaper to import than non-GMO foods, which benefits ’s economy very much. However, because Aruba is under the control of the Netherlands, which as a member of the EU has a more strict policy towards GMO foods, a labeling system of GMOs has been set up in Aruba, giving the consumer the choice of whether or not he/she chooses to eat GMOs (Labelling). In this aspect, Aruba agrees with the policies of the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, which states that countries maintain the right to deny imports of a certain GMO it does not believe has enough research done on to ensure its health safety. believes this balance of
WHO_Topic-B.docx