Thursday, April 26, 2012

Dow Corn, Resistant to a Weed Killer, Runs into Opposition

 Due to weeds genetic resistance against past pesticides, the Dow Chemical company is trying to approve their genetically engineered corn that is resistant to the chemical 2,4-D. This chemical is known to be an ingredient in Agent Orange, a pesticide killer used during the Vietnam War that has caused multiple health problems. Environmental agencies and agriculture departments argue that 2,4-D is not the main carcinogen in Agent Orange and is not likely to cause health problems. However, opposition still does not favor the use of the 2,4-D chemical. Despite the arguments, Dow has already started using the chemical on agriculture production. 

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/26/business/energy-environment/dow-weed-killer-runs-into-opposition.html?ref=health 

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