The Australian Academy Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) supports the responsible use of gene technologies to produce genetically modified plants for use in Australian agriculture.

ATSE believes that, with appropriate scientific testing and community consultation, genetically modified (GM) plants have the potential to contribute positively to Australia’s future.

In a recently published Academy Statement, ATSE says that GM plants already contribute to more efficient cotton production and enhanced environmental outcomes for the cotton industry and the communities it serves.

It says that GM plants will contribute to the international competitiveness of Australian farming, the viability of regional economies, the wellbeing of Australian consumers, and the health of ecosystems and the environment.

“Biotechnology is now a key industry sector in the economy, receiving significant support from government and the private sector. It has the potential to deliver new consumer goods, employment opportunities and benefits to the environment. This sector is experiencing significant growth, driven by rapid advances in gene technology, especially genomics research.

“Gene technology is integral to biotechnology and is an essential tool in modern plant biology. Australia has a strong position in global plant science and is a significant contributor to advances in plant gene technology.”

ATSE says while gene technology is not a panacea for agriculture, it is an important enabling technology that has already proven its place globally, with 91 million hectares of GM crops grown in 2005.

ATSE emphasises that it is important to consider the wider context in which gene technology may be used. The adoption of GM cotton in Australia has reduced pesticide use, and the adoption of herbicide-tolerant (HT) cotton allows the use of more benign weed management than was previously used in the conventional cotton production system.

There are many other potential uses of GM other than HT crops, including some that can deliver direct health benefits to consumers, such as important drugs, healthier food oils, removal of allergens from food, as well as environmental benefits – for example, bioremediation and feral pest control.

ATSE says there is a need for more effective dialogue between scientists and the mainstream environmental movements to establish common ground and identify areas for future research.

It supports a strong and robust public debate as an important component of the introduction of any significantly new technology into society and emphasises the fundamental importance of peer-reviewed quality science and substantial evidence in assisting public debate.

The Academy recognises that state moratoria on selected GM plants have been in place for some years and suggests that it is now appropriate to develop procedures by which the different forms of agricultural practice can co-exist.

“Gene technology can play a role in alleviating malnutrition, enhancing sustainability and securing yields worldwide and its potential must be harnessed.

“In these instances, the lack of full certainty, in an environment of manageable risk, should not be used as a reason to postpone measures where GM can legitimately be used to address environmental or public health issues,” ATSE concludes.