As if we needed anymore evidence that people don’t always know what they’re doing, here it is. Just when we were so worried about bird flu, now it seems we also have to worry about things like killer bees and snakehead fish. Lots of living things, these two included, have been introduced by man into habitats where they do not normally live. They often wreak havoc with indigenous species, and it is often nearly impossible to get rid of one of these “alien species” once they have gotten a foothold, not to mention the economic and environmental damage that may ensue.
We are doing the same thing sometimes with Genetically Engineered (GE) crops. Many of them certainly meet the criteria to be called an “alien species,” first because they have never existed before (they are somebody’s new invention), and additionally because they have never existed alongside natural crops. Often the GE crops cross-pollinate with the natural crops, resulting in a sort of hybrid, and often they supplant them entirely. Sometimes it is nearly impossible to get rid of the GE species once it has gained a foothold.
While countries around the world are trying to prevent the spread of “alien species” maybe they could do something about Genetically Engineered species as well. Not everyone views them as the boon that some scientists and businessmen do.
Democratic Agenda?
There has been some talk recently about a Democratic Agenda, or a lack thereof. If you visit the Democratic Party website, you will find a fairly extensive agenda there.
Still available
The Tao of George W. Bush
Perfect Christmas Gift
See my other books at right>
News of Note
More on Woodward and Plame --- Senate Resolution on the War --- National Energy Policy --- Future’s So Dark We’ve Gotta Get More Light
2 Comments:
At 10:40 AM, Carl said…
Ed,
There was a great article in National Geographic this past Spring about invasive species.
Watch out down South!
At 2:30 PM, Ed Bremson, MFA said…
I wish people would think long and hard before introducing new things into habitats where they have never existed before. The literature is replete with instances of unintended consequences.
Post a Comment
<< Home