Genetically modified crops a methodological proposal of indicators

•Expansion of GM crops is associated with the production of externalities.•A methodology was developed to select a set of risk indicators of GM crops.•The present proposal articulates the Theme-Subthemes model with the PER model.•Those environmental factors were identified that could be affected by the introduction of GM crops.•These factors make it possible to select the variables to produce indicators.

The increase of cultivated areas with genetically modified crops (GM) poses a political challenge, both in terms of risk assessment as well as State regulation. To overcome this challenge, reliable, hierarchized and systematized information is required. Therefore, we present a methodology developed to select environmental impact indicators of these crops in four dimensions: ecosystemic, social, economic, and institutional. To obtain these indicators, two associated models were employed: Pressure-State-Response (OCDE, 2003) and Theme-Subthemes (Unite Nations, DESA, 2007). Then, the most significant components (or factors) were identified and valued in accordance with the background. In order to obtain the indicators, the variables to be measured were individualized within each component. Some indicators are directed to assess the pressures generated by the cultivation of transgenic crops on the ecosystem, and also its current status. The other indicators provide information about the State responses in terms of economic and regulatory actions. The proposed indicators have been adjusted for the Uruguay case, but the methodology has a global scope, although the reality of each country must be incorporated when applying them. Their purpose is to contribute to the cost-benefit analysis of public policies related to the agricultural sector based on new GM varieties. Currently, this methodology is being applied by the National Observatory of GM crops (under implementation) in Uruguay.