Chief of Cotton Australia backed farmers request to grow genetically modified cotton in Western Australia and the Northern Territory.
Cotton Australia Chief Executive Adam Kay emphasized on 80 percent reduction in consumption of pesticides after introduction of genetically modified cotton in 1996.
Since 1999, water use efficiency has reached 67,885 megaliters, an increase of 11 percent.
He was also supported by Chairman of Australian Environment Foundation Don Burke saying that GM crops are not harmful for environment.
However opposing these claims, Executive Director of Australian Conservation Foundation pointed out the problems of feral animals caused in Australia.
In 2003, Territory Government prohibited cotton and West Australian Government became a GM-free zone in 2004.
Many farmers are asking for lifting ban on genetically modified cotton from the region.
At present, cotton industry generates average revenue of US $1.2 billion per year from exports.
Similarly, Environment Minister Malcolm Turnbull stressed on proper scientific assessment of genetically modified crop.
In order to conduct scientific assessment, Government has already established Office of Gene Technology Regulator.
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