welt.de
Saxony-Anhalt Farmers Seek EU Approval for New Breeding Techniques to Combat Climate Change
The Saxony-Anhalt Farmers' Association advocates for new breeding methods, particularly new genomic techniques (NGTs), hoping for relaxed EU regulations to combat climate change impacts like droughts and new pests; the EU Commission is currently negotiating potential exemptions for NGT plants, while critics emphasize the complexity of climate resilience and promote sustainable farming practices.
- How do new genomic techniques like CRISPR-Cas contribute to developing climate-resilient crops, and what are the potential benefits and limitations?
- The EU Commission proposes exempting certain plants produced via new genomic techniques (NGTs) from existing GMO regulations if achievable through conventional methods. This is currently under negotiation in Brussels, with implications for farmers seeking climate-resilient crops. Research at the Leibniz Institute for Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) uses CRISPR-Cas to improve crop resilience, for example, disabling virus-susceptible genes in winter barley.
- What are the immediate implications of the EU's proposed changes to genetic engineering regulations for farmers in Saxony-Anhalt facing climate-related challenges?
- The Saxony-Anhalt Farmers' Association supports new breeding methods to combat the climate crisis and hopes for a relaxation of EU genetic engineering regulations. A key challenge is the lengthy traditional breeding process (10-15 years), hindering rapid adaptation to climate change impacts like droughts, heavy rainfall, and new pests.
- What are the long-term implications of relying on new genomic techniques versus adopting sustainable farming practices to address climate change impacts on agriculture?
- While new genomic techniques offer faster crop improvement, critics like the BUND caution against oversimplifying the challenges of climate resilience. They argue that drought and heat tolerance involve complex gene interactions, questioning the rapid availability of NGT plants. The BUND advocates for a shift towards sustainable, locally adapted farming systems, emphasizing ecological diversity and soil protection.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article's framing is largely sympathetic to the farmers' association and the scientists. The headline (while not provided) likely emphasizes the urgency of climate change and the potential of NGTs as a solution. The positive quotes from Borchert and Hoffie are prominently featured, while criticism from the BUND is presented later in the article and less prominently. This framing could influence the reader to view NGTs more favorably.
Language Bias
The language used is generally neutral, although some words may subtly favor the pro-NGT perspective. For example, describing the scientists' work as 'successfully deactivating' a gene has a more positive connotation than simply saying they 'modified' it. Similarly, 'wappnen' (to arm oneself) in the context of protecting against crop failure implies a sense of urgency and necessity that might not be entirely neutral. More balanced language would strengthen the objectivity of the article.
Bias by Omission
The article presents the perspective of the Saxon-Anhalt Farmers' Association and scientists supporting new breeding methods, but omits the views of other stakeholders, such as consumers or environmental groups beyond the BUND. A broader range of opinions on the potential risks and benefits of NGTs would provide a more complete picture. The long-term environmental impacts of NGT crops are not discussed.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy by framing the issue as a choice between traditional breeding methods (which are slow) and NGTs. It doesn't explore other potential solutions, such as improving agricultural practices or developing drought-resistant crops through conventional means. This oversimplification limits the reader's understanding of the complexity of the issue.
Gender Bias
The article does not exhibit significant gender bias. While the quoted experts are predominantly male, this could reflect the gender balance within the relevant fields rather than conscious bias.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article discusses the use of new breeding methods, such as CRISPR-Cas, to develop crops more resistant to climate change impacts like drought and pests. This aligns with Climate Action as it seeks to improve agricultural resilience and reduce the vulnerability of food systems to climate change.