Genetic modification, a process used to change an organism’s genes and hence its characteristics, is now being used to improve trees through genetic modification. It is possible to create trees that produce more fruit, grow faster, or withstand adverse co

The reading states the benefits of planting genetically modified trees and provides three reasons of support. However, the speaker explains the problem with this idea of planting modified trees and refutes each of the author's claims.

First, the article claims that trees genetically modify are designed to be harder in composition and structure than the other ones. In addition, these modified trees are well-suit to survive in adverse conditions. The professor refutes this point by saying that these new trees won't ensure survival of trees. He points out that although non modified trees cannot survive to harsh condition, few of them individually create resistance to threaten condition. Nevertheless, genetically modify trees tend to be created under uniform condition, so if one tree died, the rest will not survive also.

Second, the reading posits that genetic modification will bring economic benefits because they are made to grow faster and give more yields than their counterpart. Thus, farmer will receive their money back faster and save on pesticide. However, the speaker points out that this modification of trees carries hiding effects. According to the speaker, companies will charge more money to farmer for using them than for using the non modified trees. Moreover, he states that by law people will have to pay companies to plant trees as well.

Third, the article says that genetically modified trees can prevent in the future the huge exploitation of wild trees because the modified trees will cover the demand of wood, which are required by firewood and timber companies. The professor opposes this point by explaining that these modified trees will cause damage to the local trees. Furthermore, he states that the genetically modify plans grow aggressively. Consequently, the new trees will compete with the non genetically modified trees for resources, such as water.