New Breeding Techniques: German Federal Minister of Research Calls for Green Light
The Federal Minister of Research has reiterated her demand to facilitate the application of new breeding techniques in Europe. As an example, she mentions the gene-editing tool CRISPR/Cas.
Wednesday, June 14, 2023
This article was originally published in the German "Agrarzeitung" on June 7, 2023, under the title «Neue Züchtungstechniken Stark-Watzinger will grünes Licht.»
According to the FDP politician, these techniques are an essential part of a contemporary and technology-open agricultural system of the future. She made this statement in a video message to the current general meeting of the Deutscher Raiffeisenverband (DRV) in Berlin.
For Bettina Stark-Watzinger, the use of new breeding techniques is indispensable to ensure future food security and adapt agriculture to climate change. Furthermore, she believes that the application of this technology is a prerequisite for the agricultural and food industry to remain competitive internationally. The minister explicitly welcomed the DRV's demand for an "innovation booster" in Germany.
"We need a return to market principles that facilitate rather than hinder innovations," emphasized Raiffeisen President Franz-Josef Holzenkamp, while also warning against "ideology-driven considerations." According to Holzenkamp, this includes the requirement of 30 percent organic farming and its classification as inherently sustainable without a comprehensive assessment. He also stated that setting generalized reduction targets for plant protection without considering innovations is not productive.
The DRV President pointed out the increased political significance of food security, stating that it is "a matter of our country's security and stability." He emphasized that this must be addressed, especially through equal competitive conditions in the EU. Holzenkamp identified "inequality in competition" as the issue, rather than the minimum wage, truck tolls, new regulations in animal welfare law, or potential changes in animal welfare law.
Holzenkamp also expressed support for expanding international trade and generally endorsed the EU-Mercosur agreement. However, he emphasized that "trade relations on an equal footing" are a prerequisite, which can only be achieved through reciprocity clauses.
Kindly note:
We, a non-native editorial team value clear and faultless communication. At times we have to prioritize speed over perfection, utilizing tools, that are still learning.
We are deepL sorry for any observed stylistic or spelling errors.
Related articles
Cheap Spanish Tomatoes Are a Thing of the Past – Now Innovation Is Needed
Fewer and fewer crop protection products, increasing pest pressure and retailers demanding low prices: Spain’s vegetable production is caught in a dilemma that also affects Switzerland. The only way out is through plant breeding and digitalisation.
Fertiliser crisis hits Europe – what about Switzerland?
The war in Iran is driving up fertiliser prices, and Europe is facing a potential supply gap. Switzerland remains calm for the moment – and with good reason.
Unwanted Invaders: Why Pesticides Are Essential in the Fight Against Invasive Species
They are small, highly mobile and extremely persistent: invasive species are spreading increasingly across Switzerland. Whether it is the Japanese beetle, the Asian hornet or newly discovered ant species, these unwelcome guests threaten not only native ecosystems, but also agriculture and residential areas. There is an urgent need for pesticides – including biocides and plant protection products – to combat these pests effectively.
Neither Left nor Right: Forward!
In climate, energy, and agricultural policy, beliefs often take precedence over facts. The American think tank The Breakthrough Institute demonstrates a different approach: embracing disagreement, evaluating technologies with an open mind, and viewing productivity as an ally of environmental protection.