Could GM crops reduce land values?

10 June 1999

Could GM crops reduce land values?

THE Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has reiterated its fears that genetically modified (GM) crops could adversely affect land values.

A survey for the institute found that 64% of its rural members believe the previous or present growing of genetically modified (GM) crops would make the land harder to sell.

Nearly 58% thought growing GM crops would affect land values, while 43% thought it would impact on the value of neighbouring land.

A quarter of those surveyed were undecided on both issues.

The RICS said the concerns about land values focused on the risk of cross-pollination of conventional crops and wild plants by GM varieties.

Members were also concerned that GM pollen could be carried long distances, affecting the status of non-GM crops and conservation areas.