Official DVCCA Homepage

The crops that are being created through the use of genetic modifications have been the subject of frequent debate. Supporters of the use of genetically modified crops have noted that these type of crops create a number of positive benefits, particularly as it relates to the widespread availability of food. Detractors are concerned of the potential repercussions of ingesting biotech crops and have expressed worry over the nature of future crop growth.

According to Luigi Wewege, the argument has made its way to the highest levels of government in the European Union. The governments of countries such as the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and Spain stand in support of the use of biotech crops, while Austria, France and several others stand in opposition. Regardless of the side that these countries support, Wewege believes that the new rules proposed by leaders will have international consequences.

The latest proposal to come out of the European Union would allow member states to choose to ban the sale of genetically modified crops for anything other than scientific purposes. This would obviously have a significant impact on the industry for biotech crops. On one hand, the new proposal would help to clear up what some have referred to as a “regulatory limbo” for biotech crops in Europe. On the other hand, the proposal would also give countries the right to ban the sale of biotech crops without having to cite any underlying scientific reason for instituting such a ban. No matter the outcome, the proposal is bound to be contentious.