How Long Do We Risk Ignoring the Potential Benefits of GE?

Federated Farmers is supportive of the discussion paper released today by the Royal Society Te Aparangi which aims to continue our national conversation about the use of gene editing in primary industry.

The paper says it believes now is a good time for New Zealanders to consider what gene editing could offer our primary industries,

"Even though the paper talks a lot about enhancing different types of production, we think there is also plenty of scope for discussion about other potential benefits from gene editing," Federated Farmers president Katie Milne says.

"And these benefits aren’t to on-farm uses. These are benefits for the entire community.

"We are particularly excited about the possibilities around using gene editing to control pests, especially wilding pines, possums and stoats.

"These pests have been costing us millions and millions for years.

"To be predator free by 2050, we are going to have to come up with some pretty clever science to wipe out all of those furry pests who dine on some of the tastiest, unique and endangered species the world has," Katie says.

ENDS

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