Genetic improvement refers to the process of enhancing the traits of living organisms, such as plants and animals, through selective breeding or genetic engineering. This can lead to better yields, disease resistance, and improved quality. For example, farmers may choose to breed crops that produce more fruit or are more resilient to pests, ensuring a more reliable food supply.
In recent years, advancements in technology have allowed scientists to use techniques like CRISPR to edit genes directly. This method can create genetically modified organisms (GMOs) that have specific desired traits, such as drought resistance in corn, helping to address challenges posed by climate change.