Dear reader
As many of you are scientists involved in the research and debate around
coexistence of genetically modified and conventional or organic crops, you
may be aware of EU Recommendation 2003/556/EC which provides guidelines for
the development of national strategies and best practices that, where
necessary, can be applied to keep products from non-GM fields below the
labeling threshold. This recommendation specifically states that: “Management
measures for coexistence should reflect the best available scientific
evidence on the probability and sources of admixture between GM and non-GM
crops. They should permit the cultivation of GM and non-GM crops, whilst
ensuring that non-GM crops remain below the legal thresholds for labeling
and purity standards with respect to genetically modified food and feed and
seeds, as defined by Community legislation. “
Based on
this recommendation, national strategies for coexistence are being developed
across Europe. However, some national legislation and proposals do not take
into account scientific evidence and do not respect key principles for
coexistence such as proportionality, fairness and consistency. This may
impede the ability of farmers and downstream users to adopt and utilize GM
crops, due to a greatly reduced financial and legal attractiveness.
Against this background,
I believe it would be worthwhile if a consensus statement from the
scientific community is published to establish what the science really says.
I, in association with a number of scientists in Europe, have therefore
drafted a text
summarizing the scientific stand relating to Bt maize (which has
successfully coexisted with conventional and organic maize on a commercial
scale for 8 years in the EU). The intention is to publish this as a letter
signed by scientists so that the statement from the scientific community is
in the public domain.
Anyone willing to add their name and organisation to the list of
signatories (open to view full document and list of signatories -
PDF Format or
html), should e-mail me direct to indicate their support. If you have
any queries, please do not hesitate to contact me.
With kind regards,
Graham Brookes
PG Economics
graham.brookes@btinternet.com |
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Co-existence
introduction A copy of the report "Genetically
Modified Maize - Pollen Movement and Crop Co-existence" can be
downloaded - click here!
Co-existence of GM and
non-GM crops: current experience and key principles
Co-existence in
North American agriculture: can GM crops be grown with conventional and
organic crops?
GM and non GM arable crops can
co-exist in the EU without problems: says new research paper
Co-existence
of GM and non GM crops in the UK can occur without problems
Co-existence of GM
and non GM crops: economic and market perspectives - PDF format
Co-existence
of GM and non GM crops: case study of maize grown in Spain - PDF format
Co-existence
of GM and non GM crops in the UK can occur without problems - PDF format
EU Commission report on co-existence
EU Paper on GMO's in seeds |
