Nature and Technology - Positive Aspects Combining Nature and Technology

INTRODUCTION

The introduction of bioengineering into the mainstream of science and technology has been nothing more than a natural progression. To be sure, there is a definite need for such advancement if humanity is to endure the climate changes that are affecting the very food crop upon which people depend. Additionally, the advantages of bioengineering within the medical industry have proven indispensable for its groundbreaking discoveries and applications with regard to sustaining health in the human body. There is no question that bioengineering represents mankind's ability to overcome some of nature's most ravaging aspects in order to continue -- and even enhance -- life as we have known it thus far. Without the influence of bioengineering, humanity's food supply and medical advances would suffer greatly.

POSITIVE ASPECTS COMBINING NATURE AND TECHNOLOGY

Farming is an industry that is experiencing substantial growth as a direct result of bioengineering. This technology, which has contributed to a larger and more nutritious produce, has been the turning point for many people who have come to realize that bioengineering is essential for the future of food development. As climate changes wreak havoc on crops all around the world, bioengineering allows for plant products to be "more flexible" (Katz 53) to the ever-changing weather conditions; as well, the quest to move away from using pesticides in order to control crop degradation has uncovered the inherent traits of bioengineered produce as becoming more pest resistant. "One of the reasons that bioengineering can be used to improve fruits and vegetables is the ability to manipulate the genes that produce enzymes" (Katz 53).

Not only does bioengineering virtually guarantee that food can be grown just about anywhere, it also produces a considerably better version than the one offered up by Mother Nature. Creating an apple that is crunchier or a tomato that is more flavorful and appealing to the eye is what bioengineering is all about; indeed, this technology has the ability to enhance food's exterior attraction as well as its healthful benefit. The quest for freshness and organically-manufactured produce is what has encouraged bioengineers to continue their ongoing developments so that even if a hurricane completely wipes out a several month's supply of Florida oranges, the country will still have its morning juice -- and not at an inflated price -- thanks to the ability to grow those oranges in a controlled, organic setting. "We can all cheer the success of the organic revolution, but simply eliminating chemical fertilizers and pesticides is not the last word in farming; it's just the beginning" (Imhoff 24).

Many people are put off by produce that has been inflicted with bugs, bruises, brown spots or an overall unappealing appearance. Bioengineering takes away all the guesswork when it comes to the final product, offering only what is considered to be the perfect apple, orange or tomato. Beyond providing fresh produce year-round, bioengineering aids the food processing industry, as well, by reducing processing; improving appearance; retaining or improving flavor; extending harvest time; maintain, if not improve yield; and improve hardiness. "Ignoring or failing to meet any one of these imperatives in a significant way usually spells rejection of a plant variety by growers, processors and/or consumers" (Katz 53).

Especially advantageous of bioengineering in relation to the farming industry is that its technological aspect extends the life of the produce, along with making it more outwardly appealing. Lettuce is one vegetable of particular concern, because it does not take long for it to begin wilting, soon becoming a worthless investment to the grocer if not purchased in a timely manner. The weather has been unusually harsh to the growers, who, in turn, have not been able to supply an abundant crop for consumers; heat has been a major factor in the decreased availability of lettuce, forcing some growers to adopt bioengineering methods in order to sustain the crop. With the technological advancement of gene manipulation, as well as climate controlled conditions, new and better crops are routinely being developed.