Soy fever drives deforestation in Argentina (December 2010)
Synopsis
Argentina is the world’s top exporter of soy oil, a profitable product used largely in biofuels. However, its production has caused the environment to suffer from deforestation; 70% of Argentina’s virgin forest has been cut down to plant crops of genetically modified soy bean seeds. As people lose their traditional lands, production continues at a relentless rate.
Source: Getty
Length: 2:25
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Watch the video and answer the following questions:
Play the video and then answer the questions below.
This video addresses the many and widespread benefits of increased soy production across South America.
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Almost all soy grown in Argentina is used to feed Argentina’s population.
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Extensive deforestation in Argentina is largely due to:
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Although the production of genetically modified soy has brought in billions of dollars to Argentina, it has also had the very unfortunate consequence of
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Watch the video and answer the following questions:
The video states that the production of soy in Argentina has increased 26-fold during the past two decades, largely a result of introducing genetically modified, or GM, soy in 1996. As presented in chapter 16 of your text, what are genetically modified organisms (GMOs)? In a paragraph, discuss why GMOs are so controversial. Your answer should include several benefits of GMOs, in addition to several legitimate concerns about their use.
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