What is one potential environmental benefit of producing pest-resistant crop varieties?

Producing pest-resistant crop varieties primarily leads to a decreased need for pesticide application. This is significant because the use of pesticides has a range of negative environmental impacts, including the potential for groundwater contamination, harm to non-target species (such as beneficial insects), and the development of pesticide-resistant pest populations. By developing crops that can resist pests on their own, farmers can minimize or eliminate the reliance on chemical pesticides, leading to reduced environmental pollution and promoting a healthier ecosystem. This aligns with sustainable agricultural practices that aim to manage crops in ways that are more environmentally friendly, ultimately benefitting biodiversity and the overall health of the agro-ecosystem.