How does biotechnology help to address climate change challenges in agriculture?

Biotechnology plays a crucial role in enhancing agricultural resilience to the challenges posed by climate change. By producing crops that can withstand extreme weather conditions, such as drought, flooding, or temperature fluctuations, biotechnology enables farmers to maintain productivity even when faced with adverse climate scenarios. Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) can be developed to exhibit traits such as increased drought tolerance or enhanced resistance to pests and diseases that are likely to emerge from changing climate conditions. This adaptability is essential for ensuring food security as global temperatures rise and weather patterns become more unpredictable.

In contrast, increasing soil fertility through chemical fertilizers, promoting monoculture farming practices, and reducing the need for irrigation do not directly address the broader impact of climate change on agricultural systems. While they might have their benefits in certain contexts, they do not contribute to the crucial aspect of resilience that biotechnology offers. By focusing on biotechnological advancements, agriculture can adapt more effectively to the ongoing challenges of climate change.