An assessment of the ecological implications of new varieties of seeds

The history of the production and use of high yielding grain crops is outlined. The limitations of the nutritional value of both new and traditional varieties is given. The socio‐economic benefits derived from the new crops is outlined. The environmental costs of the wide spread use of new high yielding varieties of crops in terms of genetic diversity, pest problems in mono‐cultures and the need for greater human attention and increased energy input are discussed.