15/July/20

 

The number of projects aiming to genetically engineer microorganisms has increased strongly in recent years. More effective techniques of analysis and re-synthesis of gene sequences can now be used as starting point for seeking new markets for ‘SynBio’ organisms. Projects include microorganisms which colonise the gut of humans or bees, live on the surface of or inside plants, or are abundant in soils. In addition, there is further ongoing research into viruses, bacteria or microbial fungi which are known pathogens, which can be developed for use in vaccines, pesticides or for the military. The risks are especially relevant if SynBio microorganisms are allowed to spread without sufficient control. In this context, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is warning about substantial problems in risk assessment. Testbiotech

 

 

Removing South Australia's ban on growing GM crops could cause irreversible damage to the state's clean, green reputation, according to Narrung dairy farmer, veterinarian and Keep SA GM-free Coalition associate Cathie Harvey. What's more, Harvey said, there seems to be no good reason to end the ban: "Only 2 per cent of cropping area in SA is canola and of that 2pc, only 10pc of growers have indicated they want to grow GM. For 0.2pc of cropping area, we are jeopardising the whole state's GM-free, clean, green image. I can't see a good reason to give the ban up now." Stock Journal

 

 

A group of organisations opposed to the approval of GM crops in Kenya issued a statement after the National Biosafety Authority announced its receipt of an application for environmental release and placing on the market of GM cassava that is resistant to Cassava Brown Streak Disease (CBSD). “Interfering with the DNA of a crop that poorly resourced Kenyans have for food and nutritional security as well as resilience disenfranchises the very people it is meant to help,” the organisations said in a statement. [GMW: For the success of non-GM virus-resistant cassava breeding programs, how they are starved of the funding that is poured into GMO programs, and how the GMO programs have been beset by failure, see this.] The Star