IELTS writing task 2 – Outweigh essay

Discuss the benefits and drawbacks of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). To what extent do the benefits outweigh the disadvantages?

Sample answer by Lifestyle Training Centre:

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) have stirred debates due to their potential benefits and drawbacks. This essay will examine both aspects and determine whether the advantages of GMOs outweigh the disadvantages.

GMOs have the potential to significantly increase crop yields, addressing global food shortages and reducing the environmental impact of agriculture. They can be engineered to resist pests, diseases, and harsh environmental conditions, reducing the need for pesticides and herbicides. This, in turn, can lead to higher-quality produce and more cost-effective farming practices. Moreover, GMOs have applications in medicine and industry. They can be used to produce medicines, such as insulin, and valuable industrial products, like biofuels. These applications have the potential to improve healthcare accessibility and promote sustainability.

One of the primary drawbacks of GMOs is the potential environmental impact. The release of GMOs into natural ecosystems can lead to unintended consequences, such as the disruption of local ecosystems, the emergence of superweeds, and the development of resistant pests. These ecological risks must be carefully managed. Ethical concerns also surround GMOs, particularly in the context of genetically modified organisms used in human medicine and the potential for designer babies. The ability to modify the human genome raises profound ethical and moral questions about human genetic manipulation and the commodification of life.

In conclusion, GMOs offer substantial benefits in agriculture, medicine, and industry. They have the potential to increase food production, reduce the environmental impact of agriculture, and improve healthcare and industrial processes. However, their use should be carefully regulated to minimize ecological risks and address ethical concerns. The extent to which the benefits of GMOs outweigh the disadvantages is a matter of ongoing debate and regulatory oversight, aimed at harnessing the potential benefits while managing the associated drawbacks.