European Farmers Benefiting from Bt Maize Crops Says Study

Farmers in Europe are benefiting from planting genetically modified insect resistant (Bt) maize through higher income, improved grain quality and environmental gains associated with lower insecticide use. This is the conclusion of “The benefits of adopting genetically modified, insect resistant (Bt) maize in the EU: first results from 1998-2006 plantings” by Graham Brookes, director of PG Economics in the United Kingdom and author of the study.

Key findings of the study include:

• Higher yields: In maize growing regions affected by European Corn Borer (ECB) and Maize Stem Borer (MSB), the main impact of growing Bt maize has been higher yields compared to conventional non-GM maize. Average yield benefits are +10% and sometimes higher.
• Higher income: In 2006, users of Bt earned additional income levels of between €65 and €141/ha. This is equal to an improvement in profitability of +12 to +21%.
• Better grain quality: In certain regions, Bt maize delivered important improvements in grain quality through significant reductions in the levels of mycotoxins found in the grain.
• Less pesticide use: Where farmers previously used insecticides to control ECB and MSB, adoption of Bt technology delivered environmental gains from less insecticide use and reduced use of fuel.