5.5 The Green Revolution

Discuss current events related to your country about Seed Hybridization, Modern Farming Machinery, Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs), and Money for Research and Business. 

Seed Hybridization: 

In Nicaragua, there have been significant improvements in the seed industry. For instance, the IMPULSOR program has developed and validated three new hybrids of sorghum, one of which, named Impulsor, was approved by the government of Nicaragua in 2014. 

This marks the first time in Central America that a locally developed sorghum hybrid seed has been approved and produced at a wide scale. Farmers who have already planted Impulsor have achieved encouraging results. 

In 2016, farmers planted approximately 1,000 hectares using Impulsor, with plans to expand production significantly in 2017 and beyond.

Modern family machinery: 

While there isn’t specific recent news about modern farming machinery in Nicaragua, it’s worth noting that the country is focusing on innovative ways of reducing poverty, which could include the adoption of modern farming practices. 

For example, a new model of sustainable ranching systems has been introduced in Nicaragua. 

Through a farmer-to-farmer educational approach and a systematic training in business and financial management for the cooperatives, the goal is to strengthen resilience to climate change and implement healthy agricultural systems across the via lactea region in Nicaragua.

Genetically modified organisms(Gmos):

 
There’s currently no specific news about GMOs in Nicaragua. However, globally, advances in genetic engineering have given rise to an era of foods—including genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and gene-edited foods—that promise to revolutionize the way we eat. Critics argue these foods could pose risks to human health and the environment. 

Proponents point to their potential for enhancing yields, reducing food waste, and even combating climate change. One valid concern would be the potential creation of new allergens: proteins within the crop the body recognizes and creates an immune response to.

Money for research and business: 

The World Bank supports Nicaragua’s most pressing needs through financing and technical assistance. 

The country has achieved a remarkable economic turnaround and is now focusing on innovative ways of reducing poverty. The World Bank has supported poverty reduction measures in Nicaragua through the International Development Association (IDA), the World Bank’s fund for the poorest countries.

 To better reach the country’s vulnerable families, IDA projects leverage local initiatives that stretch limited resources further and deliver sustainable results.

Discuss the negative consequences of the Green Revolution related to your country (current event). 

Seed Hybridization: While the introduction of hybrid seeds has led to increased crop yields, it has also led to a loss of biodiversity as traditional varieties of crops are replaced by these new hybrids. This can make crops more susceptible to diseases and pests, and can also lead to a dependence on seed companies. 

Modern Farming Machinery: The use of modern farming machinery can increase efficiency and productivity, but it can also lead to soil degradation and erosion. Additionally, the cost of this machinery can be prohibitive for small-scale farmers, potentially leading to increased inequality. 

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs): While GMOs can help to increase crop yields and resistance to pests and diseases, there are concerns about their impact on human health and the environment. There is also a risk that GMOs could crossbreed with wild relatives, potentially leading to unforeseen ecological consequences.

Link:
The Toxic Consequences of the Green Revolution (usnews.com)
Harmful Effects of the Green Revolution | Sciencing 

7-12-33-638.pdf (allresearchjournal.com) 

Agricultural Industry Equipment In Nicaragua | Agriculture ... (agriculture-xprt.com) 

Nicaragua Is Seeing Improvement in Seed Industry (technoserve.org) 

A New Model of Sustainable Ranching Systems in Nicaragua (nature.org)