Can we (gene) edit our way to sustainable agriculture?
We argue “No”. NGTs, so called New Genomic Techniques, are touted as making agriculture more sustainable by tweaking individual traits with the result of having more resilient plants. This approach is too simplistic however, disregarding the complexity of interactions in nature. A system-based approach by contrast respects nature’s complexity and diversity.
Sustainability in agriculture is a pressing concern, and the European Commission’s stance on “New Genomic Techniques” (NGTs) in crop breeding has sparked significant debate. In this article, we delve into the key aspects of the European organic movement’s perspective on sustainability in crop breeding, addressing the shortcomings in the European Commission’s approach and highlighting the success stories of organic breeding.
The European Green Deal sets out for Europe to become the first climate neutral continent. It does so by setting crucial political objectives for various aspects, including food, biodiversity, climate, digitalisation, and forests. The European Commission is proposing the use of so-called “New Genome Techniques” (NGTs) as a sustainable and innovative approach to plant breeding and sees the ongoing revision of the Plant Reproduction Material (PRM) legislation as an opportunity to align with its objectives.
However, the proposed framework on NGTs bares the mark of the agrochemical industry’s narrow view on sustainability and innovation, raising questions about its compatibility with the broader goals of the European Green Deal. Indeed the Commission alleges that critical requirements for NGTs to qualify as contributors to sustainable agrifood systems include achieving yield, tolerance or resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses, efficient resource use, and desirable nutritional characteristics.
New genomic techniques are little more than unproven promises, offering an easy solution to complex problems. However, sustainable agricultural production cannot rely solely on a single plant variety or trait. Agriculture is part of the wider ecosystem and should improve this in more ways than changing a single trait
Most GMOs currently on the market have the trait of herbicide tolerance. While the current generation of GMOs had promised pesticide reductions, the last decades of experience with these crops evidenced the opposite and has adverse effects on both below-ground and above-ground biodiversity, as well as on pollinators. NGTs repeat the empty promise of pesticide reduction.
GMOs are often used to legitimize patents on plants and animals, a stronger form of intellectual property rights that blocks the circulation of genetic resources necessary for breeding. Patent claims are very broad, extend beyond the technological process itself and can cover multiple varieties that include a specific genetic sequence or trait described in the patent. By granting exclusive rights to their holders, patents contribute to the monopolisation and corporate control of genetic resources. The increasing number of patents on seeds granted by the European Patent Office is a threat to the innovation and economic model of breeding in Europe, based on hundreds of SMEs.
While acknowledging the need for innovation in breeding, the organic food and farming movement emphasises that genetic engineering should not be the sole focus. Drawing from decades of experience, organic agriculture advocates for a systemic approach relying on a combination of strategies and tools creating long-term resilience.
Socially innovative approaches to organic breeding are showcasing environmental and socio-economic benefits. Breeding systems, inclusive and community-driven, stand in stark contrast to the monopolisation of genetic resources by a handful of multinational companies. Genetic engineering promotes monopolisation by assigning intellectual property rights to traits and varieties, raising concerns about its impact on diversity and accessibility.
Two case studies illustrate the success of organic breeding in transforming production systems toward sustainability.
Nordic maize: Robust cultivation systems adapted to climatic conditions
In our first case study, we delve into the world of Nordic Maize—a dynamic and forward-thinking breeding company that operates independently on a smaller scale. Their focus lies in crafting maize varieties specifically designed to thrive amidst the evolving climate conditions of Northern European countries. Nordic Maize achieves this by seamlessly integrating elite and open-source germplasm sourced from various international breeding programs, thereby guaranteeing a rich tapestry of genetic diversity. The outcome of their meticulous efforts is nothing short of remarkable—an “ultra-early” maize variety that not only facilitates harvesting in September but also promotes efficient crop rotation practices.
Scab resistance in German apple breeding
The second case validates the claim that organic farming techniques can achieve equal or better results than their NGT-counterparts. While Germany once boasted 1,000 varieties of apples, they are now limited to 10-20 varieties that are plagued by diseases like scab, caused by a fungus. To buck this trend apfel:gut e.V. has been enhancing genetic diversity through breeding new varieties and preserving old and rare ones across 10 locations in Germany since 2019. By crossing modern varieties with ancient and resilient ones, the project aims to enrich the gene pool, with a focus on selecting seedlings based on vitality and resistance to stress. Thereby, not only fulfilling requirements for sustainability laid out by the European Commission, but also creating a more resilient and diverse apple ecosystem.
In navigating the landscape of sustainable crop breeding, it is evident that a systemic approach to plant breeding, as advocated by the organic food and farm movement, is needed. The shortcomings in the European Commission’s approach to NGTs underscore the need for a comprehensive understanding of sustainability in agriculture. Editing out undesirable traits or adding on desirable ones is simply a technofix that does not consider the sum of all parts. As discussions on agricultural policies continue, finding a path to agriculture innovation that respects ecosystem health remains a critical challenge.
For detailed information, read Sustainability in organic breeding, visit our website pages on seeds and new GMOs or contact [email protected]. Do note that we prioritise our members’ requests.
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