AgBioWorld Members Discuss Organic/GM “Peace Treat,” French Rejection of GMO Bill and Climate-Ready Gene Patents
Food Navigator: “Time for an organic-GM peace treaty”
Abstract: A member posted an article published by Food Navigator declaring that the war between organic and biotechnology advocates needs to end “and concentrate on the benefits an alliance may bring.” The article questions what good could come of the fighting and cites plant pathologist Pamela Ronald’s theory that the two can work in harmony. The member who posted the article questions who started the “war.” Another member responded by saying that the “organikers” started the war with “totally flawed arguments and includes a link to an article containing the organic arguments.
Sources: Food Navigator
“Concepts of Intrinsic Value and Integrity of Plants in Organic Plant Breeding and Propagation” (PDF)
French Parliament Rejects GMO Bill
Abstract: A member posted a Reuters article on a bill blocked by the French parliament that activists said would “blur the line between natural and GM foods.” According to the article, “The bill was intended to lay down conditions for the cultivation of GM crops in France.” Prime Minister Francois Fillon said he plans to ask a committee to draft a similar bill for consideration.
Source: Reuters
Biotechnology Companies Seek Patents on “Climate Ready” Crops
Abstract: The Washington Post published an article on a report released by an activist organization for subsistence farmers that says three major biotechnology companies have filed applications to patent climate-related gene families. The article states that BASF, Syngenta and Monsanto have all filed applications to patent genes that will help cops survive drought, flooding, saltwater incursions, high temperatures and increased ultraviolet radiation. A couple of members commented on this article, with one questions whether biotech companies are jumping the gun on this one. The member wondered if climate change is moving fast enough for these patents to still be useful when they are actually needed. Another member responded by saying that the early filing could have a negative effect, in that when they expire no one will be interested in the technology anymore.
Source: Washington Post
