1
|
Nahiyan ASM, Islam S, Islam A, Rahman MA, Hasan MM, Eusufzai TK, Afreen M, Ansarey FH, Khan T, Uddin AFMJ. Fertilizer management practices in potato cultivation: a baseline study for the introduction of GE potato in Bangladesh. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 12:1409996. [PMID: 39070166 PMCID: PMC11272610 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1409996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Genetically engineered (GE) crops have the potential to contribute to agricultural sustainability, food security, and nutritional enrichment. However, these crops cannot be released for commercial cultivation without undergoing environmental risk assessments (ERA), thus biosafety evaluation. ERA assessments are performed comparatively with their natural non-GE counterparts. As Bangladesh is progressing with GE potato research, the present study aims to collect baseline information on non-GE potato cultivation with an emphasis on current agronomic practices focusing on fertilizer management and farmers' knowledge base. The survey had three parts, including information on the farmers, information on potato cultivation practices, especially fertilizer use, and lastly, the farmer's view on GE potato. From 2020 to 2021, data were collected through interviews with experienced growers in four potato-growing regions, the Central and Mid-East, North-West, Mid-West, and South-East regions (n = 1757) of the country. The study revealed that farmers of all regions used more than the recommended amounts of fertilizer; for instance, 67.1% more nitrogen fertilizer was applied as an extra dose during potato cultivation in Munshiganj (Central and Mid-East) than in the Dinajpur region (North-West). This overuse of nitrogen fertilizer can enhance plant vigor but makes the plants more susceptible to insect attraction and allows pests easier access to the plants. As a result, the excess dose of nitrogen fertilizer in Munshiganj may act as a catalyst to increase the probability of late blight. The findings also showed that 73.6% of farmers observed unexpected flowering in certain potato cultivars, which corresponded to the higher application of phosphate and potassium fertilizers aimed at late blight control. Furthermore, this study reported infestations of Solanaceous weeds, specifically Solanum torvum and Physalis heterophylla, in potato fields. Finally, our findings demonstrated that more than 68.7% of the potato growers intend to adopt disease-resistant GE potato as that may reduce the need for excess fertilizer use and thus reduce cultivation costs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Saiful Islam
- Advanced Seed Research and Biotech Centre, ACI Limited, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation & Utilization of Horticultural Crops, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Aparna Islam
- Biotechnology Program, Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, BRAC University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | - Mohammad Mahmood Hasan
- Advanced Seed Research and Biotech Centre, ACI Limited, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Science, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | | | - Mohsina Afreen
- Advanced Seed Research and Biotech Centre, ACI Limited, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | - Tahmina Khan
- Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - A. F. M. Jamal Uddin
- Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Schneider K, Barreiro-Hurle J, Vossen J, Schouten HJ, Kessel G, Andreasson E, Kieu NP, Strassemeyer J, Hristov J, Rodriguez-Cerezo E. Insights on cisgenic plants with durable disease resistance under the European Green Deal. Trends Biotechnol 2023; 41:1027-1040. [PMID: 37419837 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2023.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Significant shares of harvests are lost to pests and diseases, therefore, minimizing these losses could solve part of the supply constraints to feed the world. Cisgenesis is defined as the insertion of genetic material into a recipient organism from a donor that is sexually compatible. Here, we review (i) conventional plant breeding, (ii) cisgenesis, (iii) current pesticide-based disease management, (iv) potential economic implications of cultivating cisgenic crops with durable disease resistances, and (v) potential environmental implications of cultivating such crops; focusing mostly on potatoes, but also apples, with resistances to Phytophthora infestans and Venturia inaequalis, respectively. Adopting cisgenic varieties could provide benefits to farmers and to the environment through lower pesticide use, thus contributing to the European Green Deal target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Schneider
- Joint Research Centre, European Commission, Calle Inca Garcilaso 3, 41092, Sevilla, Spain.
| | - Jesus Barreiro-Hurle
- Joint Research Centre, European Commission, Calle Inca Garcilaso 3, 41092, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Jack Vossen
- Plant Breeding, Wageningen University & Research, Droevendaalsesteeg 1, 6700, AJ, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Henk J Schouten
- Plant Breeding, Wageningen University & Research, Droevendaalsesteeg 1, 6700, AJ, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Geert Kessel
- Field Crops, Wageningen University & Research, Edelhertweg 1, 8219, PH, Lelystad, The Netherlands
| | - Erik Andreasson
- Department of Plant Protection Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp Campus, Sweden
| | - Nam Phuong Kieu
- Department of Plant Protection Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp Campus, Sweden
| | - Jörn Strassemeyer
- Julius Kühn-Institut, Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Institute for Strategies and Technology Assessment, 14532, Kleinmachnow, Germany
| | - Jordan Hristov
- Joint Research Centre, European Commission, Calle Inca Garcilaso 3, 41092, Sevilla, Spain
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sarkar A, Wang H, Rahman A, Qian L, Memon WH. Evaluating the roles of the farmer's cooperative for fostering environmentally friendly production technologies-a case of kiwi-fruit farmers in Meixian, China. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 301:113858. [PMID: 34607139 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.113858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The agricultural cooperative may significantly impact the adoption of environmentally friendly production technologies, which eventually help the farmers with better living standards and productivity. However, critical evaluation of how and to what extent the cooperative organization's participation leads the farmer's adoption of environmentally friendly technology (EFT) is relatively unclear. Thus, to critically explore the knowledge gap, the study evaluates the effects of cooperative participation towards adopting environmentally friendly production technologies based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB). The key variables used in the study have been extracted from an extensive literature investigation, while the empirical data has been collected from October to December 2020 from 292 kiwi-fruit farmers within the Shaanxi province of China. Simultaneously, the partial least square of structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) tools has been utilized to craft the final assessment. The factor loadings of all three latent variables have been statistically significant and interrelated for quantifying the proposed model. The statistically proven framework portrayed that cooperative organizations' participation positively impacts and shapes behavioral factors and facilitates the adoption of environmentally friendly production technologies. The study found the social structure like China, the impacts of cooperation could be crucial. As cooperative participation is an ample predictor for facilitating environmentally friendly technologies, the government should broaden the technical supports, and agricultural extension should also provide extended training for a smooth transition of the cooperatives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Apurbo Sarkar
- College of Economics & Management, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China; The Sixth Industry Research Institute, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Honhyu Wang
- College of Economics & Management, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China; The Sixth Industry Research Institute, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Airin Rahman
- School of Finance and Economics, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China; Dept. of Agribusiness and Marketing, Sher-E- Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka, 1207, Bangladesh
| | - Lu Qian
- College of Economics & Management, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China; The Sixth Industry Research Institute, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China.
| | - Waqar Hussain Memon
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Xiaoling Wei, Nanjing, 210014, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Mustapa MAC, Batcha MFN, Amin L, Arham AF, Mahadi Z, Yusoff NAM, Yaacob M, Omar NA, Hussain WHW. Farmers' attitudes towards GM crops and their predictors. JOURNAL OF THE SCIENCE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE 2021; 101:5457-5468. [PMID: 33709409 DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.11194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genetically modified (GM) crops have become a controversial global issue since their commercialization in 1996. However, despite technological advancements, only a few studies have investigated farmers' attitudes towards GM crops in Malaysia. Therefore, this study aims to analyse such attitudes and their determining factors. A validated questionnaire was distributed to farmers in the Cameron Highlands, Pahang (n = 176). SPSS software was used to analyse the descriptive statistics of the farmers' attitudes to GM crops, while SmartPLS software was used to determine the predictors. RESULTS Descriptive analysis shows that the farmers claimed to have a high level of self-efficacy, and perceived GM crops as possessing high benefits which translate into a highly positive attitude towards GM crops. However, at the same time, they rated GM crops as involving moderate risks and would incur moderate costs to farm, as well as acknowledging a low level of support from the government. The structural equation model (SEM) analysis demonstrates that five factors have been identified as direct predictors of attitude to GM crops: government support (ß = 0.364, P < 0.001), perceived costs (ß = -0.282, P < 0.01), perceived risks (ß = -0.227, P < 0.01), perceived benefits (ß = 0.205, P < 0.01) and perceived self-efficacy (ß = 0.199, P < 0.05). CONCLUSION This study contributes to the existing knowledge and provides empirical support in explaining the factors that influence farmers' decisions to adopt GM crops and have significant implications for the future development of agro-biotechnology in Malaysia and in other developing countries. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohamed Faizal Noor Batcha
- The Institute of Islam Hadhari, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, 43600, Malaysia
- Malaysian Bioeconomy Development Corporation Sdn Bhd, Kuala Lumpur, 50450, Malaysia
| | - Latifah Amin
- Pusat Pengajian Citra Universiti, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, 43600, Malaysia
- The Institute of Islam Hadhari, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, 43600, Malaysia
| | - Ahmad Firdhaus Arham
- Pusat Pengajian Citra Universiti, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, 43600, Malaysia
| | - Zurina Mahadi
- Pusat Pengajian Citra Universiti, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, 43600, Malaysia
| | - Noor Ashikin Mohamed Yusoff
- The Perdana Centre of Science, Technology and Innovation Policy, Razak Faculty of Technology and Informatics, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, 54100, Malaysia
| | - Mashitoh Yaacob
- Pusat Pengajian Citra Universiti, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, 43600, Malaysia
| | - Nor Asiah Omar
- Faculty of Economics and Management, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, 43600, Malaysia
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Menary J, Amato M, Sanchez AC, Hobbs M, Pacho A, Fuller SS. New Hope for a "Cursed" Crop? Understanding Stakeholder Attitudes to Plant Molecular Farming With Modified Tobacco in Europe. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2020; 11:791. [PMID: 32595677 PMCID: PMC7304234 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2020.00791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Plant molecular farming (PMF) with tobacco could provide a sustainable and cheap platform for the production of high-value proteins for medical use. It could also offer European tobacco farmers an alternative, healthful end use for their crop. New plant breeding techniques (NPBTs) offer a means of quickly and precisely optimizing molecular farming platforms for this purpose. However, there has been little empirical research focussing on the barriers and facilitators of these technologies in the agricultural sphere. Here, we explore key stakeholder perceptions toward this combination of technologies, exploring their understanding of risk and opportunity. We interviewed N = 24 key stakeholders - tobacco farmers, agronomists, policymakers, and researchers - in three tobacco-growing areas of Spain and Italy. Our findings demonstrate these stakeholders have a favorable attitude toward PMF with tobacco due to its beneficial medical purpose and the opportunity it provides farmers to continue growing tobacco in a declining European market. Tobacco producers also reported favorable views toward NPBTs, though for some this was contingent on their use for non-food crops like tobacco. Most stakeholders' concerns are economic in nature, such as potential profitability and demands for new agronomic practices or infrastructure. Tobacco producer associations were thought to be important facilitators for future PMF scale-up. The attitude toward these technologies by smoking tobacco companies is, however, unknown and constitutes a potential risk to the development of PMF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Menary
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George’s, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mario Amato
- Department of Political Science, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Andrés Cid Sanchez
- Department of Microbiology, Centro Technológico Agroalimentario Extremadura (CTAEX), Badajoz, Spain
| | - Matthew Hobbs
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George’s, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Agata Pacho
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George’s, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sebastian S. Fuller
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George’s, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Attitude Gaps with Respect to GM Non-Food Crops and GM Food Crops and Confidence in the Government’s Management of Biotechnology: Evidence from Beijing Consumers, Chinese Farmers, Journalists, and Government Officials. SUSTAINABILITY 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/su12010324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Most soybean oil consumed in China is made from imported genetically modified (GM) soybeans, while livestock are fed imported GM soy meal and GM corn. However, no GM food crops are allowed to be planted in China at present. That puts China in a confusing situation where GM foods can be eaten but cannot be grown. Many studies suggest that it is partially due to Chinese consumers’ and government officials’ opposition to GM technology. This is the first study that examines different stakeholders’ and journalists’ attitudes toward the commercialization of GM non-food crops and GM food crops and investigates the attitude gaps with respect to these crops. From 2015 to 2016, surveys were conducted face-to-face and by email with 1730 respondents, including 1460 consumers, 54 farmers, 70 journalists, and 146 agricultural officials. We find that nearly 60% of respondents are supportive of the commercialization of GM non-food crops, but less than 30% of respondents support the commercialization of GM food crops. Around 50% of respondents have no confidence in the government’s management of biotechnology, while only 17% have confidence in the government’s management. Those with lack of confidence in the government’s management are less likely to support the commercialization of GM crops.
Collapse
|
7
|
Eriksson D, Chatzopoulou S. Responsible decision-making for plant research and breeding innovations in the European Union. GM CROPS & FOOD 2018; 9:39-44. [PMID: 28991508 PMCID: PMC5927680 DOI: 10.1080/21645698.2017.1388496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Plant research and breeding has made substantial technical progress over the past few decades, indicating a potential for tremendous societal impact. Due to this potential, the development of policies and legislation on plant breeding and the technical progress should preferably involve all relevant stakeholders. However, we argue here that there is a substantial imbalance in the European Union (EU) regarding the influence of the various stakeholder groups on policy makers. We use evidence from three examples in order to show that the role of science is overlooked: 1) important delays in the decision process concerning the authorization of genetically modified (GM) maize events, 2) the significance attributed to non-scientific reasons in new legislation concerning the prohibition of GM events in EU member states, and 3) failure of the European Commission to deliver legal guidance to new plant breeding techniques despite sufficient scientific evidence and advisory reports. We attribute this imbalance to misinformation and misinterpretation of public perceptions and a disproportionate attention to single outlier reports, and we present ideas on how to establish a better stakeholder balance within this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Eriksson
- a Department of Plant Breeding , Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences , Alnarp , Sweden
| | - Sevasti Chatzopoulou
- b Department of Social Sciences and Business , Roskilde School of Governance , Roskilde , Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Impact of information transfer on farmers’ uptake of innovative crop technologies: a structural equation model applied to survey data. JOURNAL OF TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s10961-016-9520-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
|
9
|
Attitudes in China about Crops and Foods Developed by Biotechnology. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0139114. [PMID: 26418161 PMCID: PMC4587862 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0139114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2015] [Accepted: 09/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Transgenic Bt cotton has been planted in China since 1997 and, in 2009, biosafety certificates for the commercial production of Bt rice and phytase corn were issued by the Chinese government. The public attitude in China toward agricultural biotechnology and genetically modified (GM) crops and foods has received considerable attention worldwide. We investigated the attitudes of consumers, Bt cotton farmers and scientists in China regarding GM crops and foods and the factors influencing their attitudes. Data were collected using interview surveys of consumer households, farmer households and scientists. A discrete choice approach was used to elicit the purchase intentions of the respondents. Two separate probit models were developed to examine the effect of various factors on the choices of the respondents. Bt cotton farmers had a very positive attitude because Bt cotton provided them with significant economic benefits. Chinese consumers from developed regions had a higher acceptance and willingness to pay for GM foods than consumers in other regions. The positive attitude toward GM foods by the scientific community will help to promote biotechnology in China in the future. Our survey emphasized that educational efforts made by government officials, the media and scientists can facilitate the acceptance of GM technology in China. Further educational efforts will be critical for influencing consumer attitudes and decisions of government agencies in the future. More effective educational efforts by government agencies and public media concerning the scientific facts and safety of GM foods would enhance the acceptance of GM crops in China.
Collapse
|
10
|
Public attitudes to GM foods. The balancing of risks and gains. Appetite 2015; 92:303-13. [DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2015.05.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2013] [Revised: 05/01/2015] [Accepted: 05/24/2015] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
|
11
|
Lucht JM. Public Acceptance of Plant Biotechnology and GM Crops. Viruses 2015; 7:4254-81. [PMID: 26264020 PMCID: PMC4576180 DOI: 10.3390/v7082819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2015] [Revised: 07/21/2015] [Accepted: 07/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
A wide gap exists between the rapid acceptance of genetically modified (GM) crops for cultivation by farmers in many countries and in the global markets for food and feed, and the often-limited acceptance by consumers. This review contrasts the advances of practical applications of agricultural biotechnology with the divergent paths-also affecting the development of virus resistant transgenic crops-of political and regulatory frameworks for GM crops and food in different parts of the world. These have also shaped the different opinions of consumers. Important factors influencing consumer's attitudes are the perception of risks and benefits, knowledge and trust, and personal values. Recent political and societal developments show a hardening of the negative environment for agricultural biotechnology in Europe, a growing discussion-including calls for labeling of GM food-in the USA, and a careful development in China towards a possible authorization of GM rice that takes the societal discussions into account. New breeding techniques address some consumers' concerns with transgenic crops, but it is not clear yet how consumers' attitudes towards them will develop. Discussions about agriculture would be more productive, if they would focus less on technologies, but on common aims and underlying values.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jan M Lucht
- Scienceindustries, Swiss Business Association Chemistry Pharma Biotech, P.O. Box 1826, Zurich CH-8021, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Andersen MM, Landes X, Xiang W, Anyshchenko A, Falhof J, Østerberg JT, Olsen LI, Edenbrandt AK, Vedel SE, Thorsen BJ, Sandøe P, Gamborg C, Kappel K, Palmgren MG. Feasibility of new breeding techniques for organic farming. TRENDS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2015; 20:426-34. [PMID: 26027462 DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2015.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2015] [Revised: 04/24/2015] [Accepted: 04/27/2015] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Organic farming is based on the concept of working 'with nature' instead of against it; however, compared with conventional farming, organic farming reportedly has lower productivity. Ideally, the goal should be to narrow this yield gap. In this review, we specifically discuss the feasibility of new breeding techniques (NBTs) for rewilding, a process involving the reintroduction of properties from the wild relatives of crops, as a method to close the productivity gap. The most efficient methods of rewilding are based on modern biotechnology techniques, which have yet to be embraced by the organic farming movement. Thus, the question arises of whether the adoption of such methods is feasible, not only from a technological perspective, but also from conceptual, socioeconomic, ethical, and regulatory perspectives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Marchman Andersen
- Department of Media, Cognition and Communication, University of Copenhagen, Karen Blixens Vej 4, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Xavier Landes
- Department of Media, Cognition and Communication, University of Copenhagen, Karen Blixens Vej 4, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Wen Xiang
- Centre for Public Regulation and Administration, Faculty of Law, University of Copenhagen, Studiestræde 6, DK-1455 Copenhagen K, Denmark
| | - Artem Anyshchenko
- Centre for Public Regulation and Administration, Faculty of Law, University of Copenhagen, Studiestræde 6, DK-1455 Copenhagen K, Denmark
| | - Janus Falhof
- Center for Membrane Pumps in Cells and Disease - PUMPKIN, Danish National Research Foundation, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, DK-1871 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Jeppe Thulin Østerberg
- Center for Membrane Pumps in Cells and Disease - PUMPKIN, Danish National Research Foundation, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, DK-1871 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Lene Irene Olsen
- Center for Membrane Pumps in Cells and Disease - PUMPKIN, Danish National Research Foundation, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, DK-1871 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Anna Kristina Edenbrandt
- Department of Food and Resource Economics, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 23, DK-1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Suzanne Elizabeth Vedel
- Department of Food and Resource Economics, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 23, DK-1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Bo Jellesmark Thorsen
- Department of Food and Resource Economics, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 23, DK-1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark; Center for Macroecology, Evolution and Climate, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 23, DK-1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Peter Sandøe
- Department of Food and Resource Economics, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 23, DK-1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark; Department of Large Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Christian Gamborg
- Department of Food and Resource Economics, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 23, DK-1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Klemens Kappel
- Department of Media, Cognition and Communication, University of Copenhagen, Karen Blixens Vej 4, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Michael G Palmgren
- Center for Membrane Pumps in Cells and Disease - PUMPKIN, Danish National Research Foundation, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, DK-1871 Frederiksberg C, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Palmgren MG, Edenbrandt AK, Vedel SE, Andersen MM, Landes X, Østerberg JT, Falhof J, Olsen LI, Christensen SB, Sandøe P, Gamborg C, Kappel K, Thorsen BJ, Pagh P. Are we ready for back-to-nature crop breeding? TRENDS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2015; 20:155-64. [PMID: 25529373 DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2014.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2014] [Revised: 11/05/2014] [Accepted: 11/10/2014] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Sustainable agriculture in response to increasing demands for food depends on development of high-yielding crops with high nutritional value that require minimal intervention during growth. To date, the focus has been on changing plants by introducing genes that impart new properties, which the plants and their ancestors never possessed. By contrast, we suggest another potentially beneficial and perhaps less controversial strategy that modern plant biotechnology may adopt. This approach, which broadens earlier approaches to reverse breeding, aims to furnish crops with lost properties that their ancestors once possessed in order to tolerate adverse environmental conditions. What molecular techniques are available for implementing such rewilding? Are the strategies legally, socially, economically, and ethically feasible? These are the questions addressed in this review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael G Palmgren
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, DK-1871 Frederiksberg C, Denmark.
| | - Anna Kristina Edenbrandt
- Department of Food and Resource Economics, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 23, DK-1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Suzanne Elizabeth Vedel
- Department of Food and Resource Economics, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 23, DK-1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Martin Marchman Andersen
- Department of Media, Cognition, and Communication, University of Copenhagen, Karen Blixens Vej 4, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Xavier Landes
- Department of Media, Cognition, and Communication, University of Copenhagen, Karen Blixens Vej 4, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Jeppe Thulin Østerberg
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, DK-1871 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Janus Falhof
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, DK-1871 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Lene Irene Olsen
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, DK-1871 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Søren Brøgger Christensen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Peter Sandøe
- Department of Food and Resource Economics, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 23, DK-1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark; Department of Large Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Christian Gamborg
- Department of Food and Resource Economics, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 23, DK-1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Klemens Kappel
- Department of Media, Cognition, and Communication, University of Copenhagen, Karen Blixens Vej 4, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Bo Jellesmark Thorsen
- Department of Food and Resource Economics, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 23, DK-1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Peter Pagh
- Centre for Public Regulation and Administration, Faculty of Law, University of Copenhagen, Studiestræde 6, DK-1455 Copenhagen K, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Azadi H, Ghanian M, Ghoochani OM, Rafiaani P, Taning CNT, Hajivand RY, Dogot T. Genetically Modified Crops: Towards Agricultural Growth, Agricultural Development, or Agricultural Sustainability? FOOD REVIEWS INTERNATIONAL 2015. [DOI: 10.1080/87559129.2014.994816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
|
15
|
Current issues in cereal crop biodiversity. ADVANCES IN BIOCHEMICAL ENGINEERING/BIOTECHNOLOGY 2013; 147:1-35. [PMID: 24352706 DOI: 10.1007/10_2013_263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
The exploration, conservation, and use of agricultural biodiversity are essential components of efficient transdisciplinary research for a sustainable agriculture and food sector. Most recent advances on plant biotechnology and crop genomics must be complemented with a holistic management of plant genetic resources. Plant breeding programs aimed at improving agricultural productivity and food security can benefit from the systematic exploitation and conservation of genetic diversity to meet the demands of a growing population facing climate change. The genetic diversity of staple small grains, including rice, maize, wheat, millets, and more recently quinoa, have been surveyed to encourage utilization and prioritization of areas for germplasm conservation. Geographic information system technologies and spatial analysis are now being used as powerful tools to elucidate genetic and ecological patterns in the distribution of cultivated and wild species to establish coherent programs for the management of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture.
Collapse
|
16
|
Masip G, Sabalza M, Pérez-Massot E, Banakar R, Cebrian D, Twyman RM, Capell T, Albajes R, Christou P. Paradoxical EU agricultural policies on genetically engineered crops. TRENDS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2013; 18:312-324. [PMID: 23623240 DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2013.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2012] [Revised: 03/04/2013] [Accepted: 03/26/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
European Union (EU) agricultural policy has been developed in the pursuit of laudable goals such as a competitive economy and regulatory harmony across the union. However, what has emerged is a fragmented, contradictory, and unworkable legislative framework that threatens economic disaster. In this review, we present case studies highlighting differences in the regulations applied to foods grown in EU countries and identical imported products, which show that the EU is undermining its own competitiveness in the agricultural sector, damaging both the EU and its humanitarian activities in the developing world. We recommend the adoption of rational, science-based principles for the harmonization of agricultural policies to prevent economic decline and lower standards of living across the continent.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Masip
- Department of Plant Production and Forestry Science, ETSEA, University of Lleida-Agrotecnio Center, Av. Alcalde Rovira Roure 191, 25198 Lleida, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Chandler SF, Sanchez C. Genetic modification; the development of transgenic ornamental plant varieties. PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY JOURNAL 2012; 10:891-903. [PMID: 22537268 DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-7652.2012.00693.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Plant transformation technology (hereafter abbreviated to GM, or genetic modification) has been used to develop many varieties of crop plants, but only a few varieties of ornamental plants. This disparity in the rate and extent of commercialisation, which has been noted for more than a decade, is not because there are no useful traits that can be engineered into ornamentals, is not due to market potential and is not due to a lack of research and development activity. The GM ornamental varieties which have been released commercially have been accepted in the marketplace. In this article, progress in the development of transgenic ornamentals is reviewed and traits useful to both consumers and producers are identified. In considering possible factors limiting the release of genetically modified ornamental products it is concluded that the most significant barrier to market is the difficulty of managing, and the high cost of obtaining, regulatory approval.
Collapse
|
18
|
Gómez-Galera S, Twyman RM, Sparrow PAC, Van Droogenbroeck B, Custers R, Capell T, Christou P. Field trials and tribulations--making sense of the regulations for experimental field trials of transgenic crops in Europe. PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY JOURNAL 2012; 10:511-23. [PMID: 22284604 DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-7652.2012.00681.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Transgenic plants that are being developed for commercial cultivation must be tested under field conditions to monitor their effects on surrounding wildlife and conventional crops. Developers also use this opportunity to evaluate the performance of transgenic crops in a typical environment, although this is a matter of commercial necessity rather than regulatory compliance. Most countries have adapted existing regulations or developed new ones to deal specifically with transgenic crops and their commodities. The European Union (EU) is renowned, or perhaps notorious, for having the broadest and most stringent regulations governing such field trials in the world. This reflects its nominal adherence to the precautionary approach, which assumes all transgenic crops carry an inherent risk. Therefore, field trials in the EU need to demonstrate that the risk associated with deploying a transgenic crop has been reduced to the level where it is regarded as acceptable within the narrowly defined limits of the regulations developed and enforced (albeit inconsistently) by national and regional governments, that is, that there is no greater risk than growing an equivalent conventional crop. The involvement of national and regional competent authorities in the decision-making process can add multiple layers of bureaucracy to an already-intricate process. In this review, we use country-based case studies to show how the EU, national and regional regulations are implemented, and we propose strategies that could increase the efficiency of regulation without burdening developers with further unnecessary bureaucracy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Gómez-Galera
- Department of Plant Production and Forestry Science-ETSEA, University of Lleida-CRA, Lleida, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Fagerström T, Dixelius C, Magnusson U, Sundström JF. Stop worrying; start growing. Risk research on GM crops is a dead parrot: it is time to start reaping the benefits of GM. EMBO Rep 2012; 13:493-7. [PMID: 22576775 PMCID: PMC3367244 DOI: 10.1038/embor.2012.59] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Opponents of genetically modified crops continue to raise concerns about risk, despite 20 years of research disproving their claims. Science should close the book on risk research and turn to studying the economic and environmental benefits of agricultural biotechnology
Collapse
|
20
|
Michaud D. In consideration of GMOs: a virtual special issue of the Plant Biotechnology Journal. PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY JOURNAL 2011; 9:933-935. [PMID: 22066549 DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-7652.2011.00659.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
|