Perceptions of genetically modified crops among Danish farmers.

摘要

The objective of this paper is to investigate what factors have an impact on farmers' attitude toward accepting genetically modified (GM) crops. For this purpose, a farm survey was conducted and data were subjected to a multinomial logit regression analysis. The main results indicate that approximately 45%, 28%, and 27% of the farmers are positive, negative, and neutral, respectively, toward GM technology. Farm income is the main driver for adoption of the technology. More than 25% of neutral as well as negative farmers will adopt GM crops if farm income improves. Farmers expect improved yields and reduction in the use of herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, and growth regulators. Neutral farmers are additionally concerned about the general risks and resistances that may be attributed to adopting GM crops. While positive farmers are additionally concerned about environment, health hazards, and the limitations on biological diversity within the vicinity of their farms. A significant number of negative farmers would revise their choice if the chemical plant protection inputs are reduced. The age of the farmer has a less clear impact on the attitude toward GM technology.