Bt Research 2024, Vol.15, No.1, 30-41 http://microbescipublisher.com/index.php/bt 35 Figure 3 from Carrière et al. (2019) presents the Institutional Analysis and Development (IAD) framework for Bt resistance governance. This framework identifies how environmental attributes, actor behavior, and institutional rules interact to influence resistance management outcomes. Key factors include pest biology, agricultural practices, and socioeconomic conditions. The figure highlights the importance of feedback loops, where growers' practices impact the evolution of pest resistance, which in turn affects the incentives for resistance management. This holistic approach underscores the necessity of combining regulations, monitoring, and stakeholder cooperation in effectively managing Bt resistance. 5 Socioeconomic Factors The long-term sustainability of Bt transgenic crops in agricultural systems is influenced by a complex interplay of socioeconomic factors, including farmer adoption and acceptance, economic benefits and costs, and the broader impact on rural communities. Addressing these factors through improved regulation, public education, and integrated pest management strategies can enhance the sustainability and benefits of Bt crops. 5.1 Farmer adoption and acceptance The adoption and acceptance of Bt transgenic crops by farmers are influenced by various factors, including perceived benefits, regulatory environments, and social pressures. In China, for instance, despite the development of multiple Bt rice lines that have shown negligible environmental risks and safety as food, commercial production has been stalled due to politicized decision-making and low consumer acceptance of GM crops. This indicates that enhancing public understanding and acceptance of GM crops is crucial for their adoption (Li et al., 2016). Similarly, in Pakistan, the adoption of Bt cotton has been complicated by a poorly regulated market where farmers often misidentify Bt and non-Bt crops, affecting their pesticide use strategies and health outcomes. Improved regulation and accurate identification of Bt crops could enhance adoption and maximize benefits (Kouser et al., 2019). 5.2 Economic benefits and costs The economic benefits of Bt transgenic crops are significant, primarily due to reduced pesticide use and increased crop yields. For example, Bt cotton in the United States has led to regional suppression of pest populations, reduced conventional insecticide use, and increased profits for farmers (Gassmann and Reisig, 2022). However, the economic advantages can be offset by the rise of secondary pests, which may require additional insecticide applications or other management strategies. This has been observed in Bt maize, where secondary pests have become key pests, necessitating further measures to maintain economic benefits (Catarino et al., 2016). The health cost savings associated with reduced pesticide use in Bt cotton cultivation in Pakistan have been estimated at around US$ 7 million annually, highlighting the economic and health benefits of Bt crops (Kouser et al., 2019). 5.3 Impact on rural communities The impact of Bt transgenic crops on rural communities extends beyond economic benefits to include health and environmental aspects. In Pakistan, the reduced need for pesticide sprays in Bt cotton cultivation has been associated with significant health benefits for farmers, reducing pesticide-induced illnesses and associated costs (Kouser et al., 2019). However, the uneven distribution of benefits and risks among different regions and communities can lead to disparities. For instance, in the southeastern USA, Bt cotton adoption has resulted in increased abundance of non-target pests like stink bugs, necessitating continued use of synthetic insecticides and potentially negating some of the environmental and economic benefits. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the ecological and socioeconomic dynamics is essential for maximizing the positive impacts of Bt crops on rural communities. 6 Regulatory and Policy Considerations The regulatory and policy considerations for Bt crops are multifaceted and require a balanced approach that addresses biosafety, public perception, and international trade dynamics. Effective governance, robust regulatory frameworks, and proactive policy support are essential for the long-term sustainability of Bt transgenic crops in agricultural systems.
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