Question

What are some possible impacts (positive or negative) of genetically engineered plants on the environment, society, and individuals?

Answer 1

I don't know.
Googled it and found something.
http://www.academia.edu/542384/A_Review_on_Impacts_of_Genetically_Modified_Food_on_Human_Health
Check and read if it help.
Another one.
http://www.slideshare.net/liunengguang/positive-and-negative-effects-caused-by-genetic-modified

Answer 2

Hi @sarahdrayton15 :) Welcome to OpenSudy!

As far as the environment is concerned, it would be disastrous if a herbicide resistance gene for instance is passed on to an invasive species. I'll let you guess the consequences of such a situation. Now, the other side of the coin, could be that genetically modified plants could help the environment by addressing the problem of global warming for instance - modifying genes so that plants can absorb more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Carbon sequestration!

When it comes to society, concrete examples would be monsanto and famine. Mosanto is a company which is actively involved in plant genetic engineering. This company has been in the news especially for exploiting the agricultural communities. Look for the stories on the internet. It will help you understand the whole story about society better. On the other hand, genetically modified plants could be a way to address famine. Growing such plants which can withstand extreme conditions such as in Africa could help such a country address their food insecurity or better lack-of-food problem.

For the individuals, nothing concrete has been found that genetically modified plants could have a negative impact on people. However, the opposite is true. Genetically modified plants can be beneficial to people. A very concrete and common example is the golden rice which can act as a supplement of vitamin A.

Look for more information on the internet. Enjoy OpenStudy while asking but also giving a helping hand by answering questions :)