A new video by the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) has called on MEPs to “advance” regulation and “embrace” innovations of new genomic techniques (NGTs).
The video features experts from across the agricultural supply chain, who discuss how NGTs such as CRISPR are a “boost to plant breeding” by enabling “more precise” development of crops with desirable characteristics such as drought tolerance and disease resistance.
The American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) released a new video featuring experts from across the agricultural supply chain on the potential of new genomic techniques (NGTs).
The video includes voices of farmers, breeders and researchers on the science of gene editing and why the world must embrace these technologies.
The list of experts include: Farmer and vice-president of the Danish Agriculture and Food Council, Thor Gunnar Kofoed; and farmer and vice-president of the Romanian Corn Producers Association, Tiberiu Dan Stan.
New genomic techniques
President and CEO of ASTA, Andy LaVigne said: “With climate change intensifying and the need for sustainable farming practices growing worldwide, plant breeding innovation offers a way forward.
“These genomic techniques provide us with the tools to not only ensure food security but also to develop improved varieties that are more resilient to environmental pressures. It is crucial that these technologies are fully utilized for the benefit of both farmers and consumers.”
Experts in the video highlighted how genomic techniques allow “targeted, budget-friendly modifications” that can introduce characteristics in crops within five to seven years, compared to conventional breeding methods, which can take decades.
The video included the importance of NGTs in enabling improved plant varieties to adapt quickly to the realities of climate change, ensuring stable crop yields and contributing to global food security.
The video also looked at barriers and access to NGTs, with many EU farmers unable to access them due to current regulations.