Document Reveals EU Council to Urge Comprehensive Risk Assessment for New Genomic Techniques in Agriculture
The potential of new genomic techniques to help farmers develop more sustainable agriculture systems has been a topic of discussion in recent years. However, the implementation of these techniques has been met with regulatory scrutiny, which has led to delays in their adoption.
A document published yesterday by the General Secretariat of the Council of the European Union highlighted concerns about the regulation of plants obtained by new genomic techniques. The document includes an information note from the Austrian delegation in annex that raises concerns about the methodology used in the recent impact assessment on the use of new genomic techniques suggesting that it was not based on solid data and argued that the results should not be used as a basis for policy decisions.
In the note, the Austrian delegation urges the European Commission to conduct a comprehensive environmental and health risk assessment, like that in place for GMOs, based on solid data rather than assumptions. They also suggest establishing an ad hoc Working Group (WG) for the upcoming discussions at Council level, involving all concerned areas (environment, health and agriculture), following the scope of the current GMO legislation and taking into account the responsibilities of the different competent authorities in the Member States. The subject of the information note will be dealt with under 'Any other business' at the Council (Environment) meeting on 16 March 2023.
Despite the existence of an impact assessment, the regulatory scrutiny of these techniques continues to pose challenges for farmers. The delays in the implementation of these new solutions are particularly worrisome in light of the increasing pressure on farmers to produce more sustainably.
The potential benefits of new genomic techniques are significant. They can help farmers develop crops that are more resistant to pests and diseases, as well as crops that are higher yielding and more nutritious. These benefits can lead to more sustainable agriculture systems, reduce the use of pesticides, and provide more nutritious food for consumers.
However, the regulatory scrutiny of these techniques has been a source of frustration for many farmers. There is a concern that the current regulatory framework is too restrictive, and that it is hindering progress towards more sustainable agriculture.
It is important to balance the potential benefits of new genomic techniques with the need for adequate regulatory scrutiny. While there is a need for caution, it is also important to ensure that the regulatory framework is based on solid data and is not overly restrictive. This will help to ensure that farmers can take advantage of the potential benefits of new genomic techniques, while also promoting sustainability and protecting the environment.