CRISPR-Cas9 Gene Editing: Ethical Implications for Agricultural Biotechnology

Introduction The advent of CRISPR-Cas9 technology has revolutionized the field of genetic engineering, offering precise, efficient, and relatively affordable methods for modifying DNA sequences. In agriculture, this technology holds the promise of creating crops that are resistant to diseases, tolerant of drought conditions, and more nutritious. However, the rapid advancement of gene editing capabilities has outpaced the development of ethical guidelines and regulatory frameworks. This paper seeks to bridge that gap by examining the ethical implications of CRISPR-Cas9 applications in agriculture through three lenses: environmental sustainability, socioeconomic equity, and food safety. Methodology We conducted a systematic review of 47 peer-reviewed articles published between 2019 and 2025, supplemented by interviews with three agricultural scientists and two bioethicists. Our analysis framework drew upon the Beauchamp and Childress model of bioethics, adapted for agricultural contexts. Findings Our research reveals a complex landscape of competing interests and values. While 78% of reviewed studies acknowledged the potential of CRISPR to enhance food security, 62% raised concerns about ecological impacts, particularly regarding gene drive technology and its potential to alter wild populations irreversibly.