EASAC Evaluates EU Policies on Biotech Crops

The European Academies Science Advisory Council (EASAC) released a policy report about the opportunities and challenges of using crop genetic improvement technologies for sustainable agriculture. It highlights a number of inconsistencies in the current policy landscape of the European Union (EU). These include the approval of GM crop importation and disapproval of the same GM crop for cultivation within the EU; the commitment to invest in plant science but neglects the use certain agricultural innovation; and the goal to reduce chemical pesticide but over-regulates alternative approaches in crop protection.

The report also said that rapid changes in the distribution in agriculture is happening worldwide but EU has declined from some world markets. Crop genetic improvement technologies is one valid tool towards sustainable intensification of agriculture, and implementing policies against such tools is unwise.