Understanding whether EU regulations on novel Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) should be relaxed
Let's dive into the heated EU discussion on loosening restrictions for new genetically modified crops!
Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are quite the controversial topic, and the new kid on the block, New Genomic Techniques (NGTs), is stirring up just as much debate.
As we discussed in our last episode, NGTs are state-of-the-art techniques used to manipulate a plant's DNA through gene editing.
Currently in the EU, crops developed using NGTs fall under the same regulation as GMOs. However, this might soon change with the European Commission's 2023 proposal to ease restrictions on these techniques.
This proposal has both supporters and detractors, among them, scientists like Michael Antoniou from King's College London and Nathalie Verbruggen from the Université Libre de Bruxelles. Let's take a closer look at their arguments.
Is the proposed distinction between two types of NGTs scientifically sound?
The EU's proposed division of NGTS into two categories, NGT 1 and NGT 2, depends on the number of genetic modifications introduced. This division, according to both professors, lacks a solid scientific foundation.
"This distinction is complete nonsense," explains Verbruggen, "because nature doesn't draw neat lines." Antoniou is equally dismissive, claiming the criteria for NGT 1 is an open door for unregulated modifications.
While both agree the distinction is flawed, their reactions diverge: Verbruggen wants to see more plants classified as NGT 1 for greater deregulation, while Antoniou is concerned about the high number of NGT crops already classified.
Can deregulation of NGTs tackle climate change and strengthen our food system?
Both experts hold different views on how EU regulations will impact climate change and our entire food system.
Verbruggen is optimistic, emphasizing that the potential benefits of NGTs hinge on their use. She believes guided sustainable goals could make NGTs powerful tools for agriculture and biodiversity. She points out the advantage of precision genetic modifications that resemble natural breeding.
In contrast, Antoniou is sceptical about NGTs' ability to solve the challenges posed by climate change. He argues that the complex traits we need to combat climate change (e.g., drought tolerance, saline resistance) are unlikely to be determined by a few genes.
Antoniou believes the issue doesn't lie within the crops but within the agricultural system itself, emphasizing that what we need are climate-ready systems of agriculture, not just climate-ready crops.
Does patenting pose a problem?
Antoniou and Verbruggen agree that patenting NGT crops could lead to issues. Farmers might pay more for seeds and have limited use and growth options, disadvantaging them. Additionally, they fear it may benefit large biotech companies, potentially limiting access for smaller players and public institutions.
In conclusion, the debate surrounding the deregulation of NGTs in the EU centers on balancing the need for innovation in agriculture, ensuring safety, and maintaining fairness for all stakeholders. Whether you're a scientist, farmer, or consumer, it's crucial to stay informed on this rapidly evolving subject.
Check out our articles: "NGTs: Inside the first European gene-edited wheat field trial" and "What are GMOs and why do they remain so controversial?"
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[European Commission] [GMOs: seeds of discord] [Agriculture]
- The proposal to ease restrictions on New Genomic Techniques (NGTs) in 2023, as put forth by the European Commission, is a hotly debated topic in the scientific community.
- The distinction between NGT 1 and NGT 2, based on the number of genetic modifications introduced, cannot be justified scientifically, according to scientists Nathalie Verbruggen and Michael Antoniou.
- While both experts agree that patenting NGT crops could create issues for farmers and small players, their views differ on the potential impact of NGTs on climate change and the food system.
- In discussing the EU's regulations on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and NGTs, it's essential to consider the balance between fostering innovation, ensuring safety, and maintaining fairness for all involved parties, including farmers, consumers, and researchers.
