Genetically modified crops for biodiversity conservation? : reflections from the GM debate in Costa Rica

A series of events in Costa Rica over the past months – from the departure of
Monsanto to the issuing of a request by the national president’s son that all transgenic
crops be destroyed – has attracted attention to the debate about whether or not to
continue permitting the cultivation of genetically modified seeds in the country.
Proponents of GM cultivation have relied heavily on the argument that using GM
food production can increase yields, thereby freeing more land for biodiversity
conservation in national parks and protected areas. What do these proposals entail,
who are their proponents, and why does biodiversity play an important role? This
paper uses the current debate to understand the various interests in preserving Costa
Rica’s biodiversity, and the driving forces behind the promotion of GMOs as a
catalyst for its conservation.