This report explores the complexity of the much-discussed but little-understood question of the impact of genetically engineered (GE) crops on farmers’ use of pesticides. It provides background on what defines a pesticide and why they are used, examines trends in pesticide use and adoption of GE crops over time, and poses specific questions regarding trends in pesticide use, such as:

  • Which GE crops might have an impact on which pesticides?
  • How has the adoption of insect-resistant crops impacted the use of insecticides?
  • How has the adoption of herbicide-tolerant crops impacted the use of herbicides?
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