Half of the European Union’s 28 countries had decided to go against the cultivation of genetically modified crops
Europe has rejected the proposal that would have allowed its countries to restrict or ban use of genetically modified (GM) crops. The European Parliament’s Environment and Public Health Committee voted against the proposal on Tuesday.
Earlier this month, 16 out of 28 European Union (EU) member states, including France and Germany, had formally notified and registered with the European Commission their intention to ban GM crop cultivation under new EU rules. This was reportedly the first time member states had been able to do so since the EU started regulating technology more than 20 years ago.
According to a report published by non-profit Truthout, GM crops have been highly contentious within the EU. After receiving an EU crop authorisation once, it automatically applied across all member states—irrespective of who voted yes or no. Indeed, crops can even be authorised where the majority of members are opposed, under rules that state that crops permitted in one state can be grown in any.
A UK-based policy group GeneWatch states that only two GM crops have been approved for commercial growing in the EU. One is a variety of pest-resistant maize, produced by Monsanto and the other is a potato known as the Amflora. Large quantities of GM soya and maize are imported into Europe as animal feed.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
India Environment Portal Resources :
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.