What is a potential environmental benefit of producing pest-resistant crop varieties?

Producing pest-resistant crop varieties has a significant environmental benefit by reducing the need for pesticide application. When crops are engineered or bred to be resistant to specific pests, farmers do not have to rely as heavily on chemical pesticides to protect their yields. This reduction in pesticide use leads to lower chemical runoff into surrounding ecosystems, minimizing potential harm to non-target organisms, including beneficial insects, soil microbes, and aquatic life.

Additionally, less pesticide use can lead to improved soil and water quality, as excess chemicals often contaminate these resources when they wash off fields during rain events. By managing pest populations naturally through resistant varieties, farmers can adopt more sustainable agricultural practices that foster a healthier environment, both on the farm and in the broader ecosystem.