Plant genomics and biotechnology

Genomics and biotechnology are the modern tools for understanding plants at the various biological and
environmental levels, as well as boosting classical plant breeding techniques. An array of novel technologies
have emerged that are now permitting researchers to identify the genetic underpinnings of crop improvement, namely the genes that contribute to the improved productivity and quality of modern crop varieties.

The much-debated genetic modification (GM) of plants is one of the biotechnologies used, depending on the
specific challenges to be addressed, but we should not make the fundamental mistake of equating agricultural
and plant biotechnology with GM alone. Genetic modification of plants is not the only technology in the toolbox of modern plant biotechnologies.

Application of these technologies will substantially improve plant breeding, farming and food processing. In
particular, the new technologies will enhance our ability to improve crops further and, not only make them more traceable, but also enable different varieties to exist side by side (known as crop co-existence) – enhancing the consumer’s freedom to choose between conventional, organic and GM food. Taking advantage of the genetic diversity of plants will not only give consumers a wider choice of food, but it will also expand the range of plantderived products, including novel forms of pharmaceuticals, biodegradable plastics, bio-energy, paper, and more.

Plant genomics and biotechnology could potentially transform agriculture into a more knowledge-based
business. This could strengthen the sector’s sustainability and profitability by reducing uncertainty and the
dependence of farmers on variable ecological and climatic conditions. Critics fear that modifying the genetic
make up of some plants could lead to the possible emergence of such complications as ‘superweeds’ or toxic
food. Although scientific investigation in new fields is never risk-free, with due scientific precaution and diligence, constant and careful monitoring, and strict regulation, adverse developments can be prevented.
A strong European science and industry base in this important sector will allow Europe to address a number of socio-economic challenges:

• Securing a healthy and safe food supply
Improving living standards, particularly in developed countries, and a growing world population are rapidly
boosting global demand for high quality and safe food. Food shortages and famines are currently localised
phenomena and can be addressed by improving the distribution of the world’s food output. However, as the
globe’s 6 billion inhabitants climb to more than 9 billion over the next half century, not only will this mean there are more mouths to feed but there will be less arable land with which to do it. This means that food distribution will have to become more equitable and farming will need to become both more productive and diversified. In addition, to respond to consumer expectations, the quality of plants has to be improved and their nutritional value boosted.

• Sustainable agriculture
We urgently need to make today’s chemical-intensive agriculture more sustainable while maintaining its
productivity. In fact, we need to increase yields and simultaneously reduce or optimise the amount of fuel,
fertilisers, pesticides and water used up in the process. The dual challenges of global climate changes and
increased seasonal weather instabilities are placing additional strains on the world’s agricultural capacity,
particularly as more marginal land is farmed.

• Green and pleasant land
Agricultural waste can be reduced to a minimum through the efficient use of bio-waste to produce biomaterials and bio-energy. As we run down our supplies of fossil fuels and their environmental impact grows, we will need to substitute them with renewable and environmentally friendly fuel sources. In addition, efficient land management will become increasingly necessary to ensure diversity of agricultural production, protection of the environment and conservation of natural resources and biodiversity.

• Competitiveness and consumer choice
A competitive global position for the EU in agriculture, biotechnology and food production will benefit
employment and economic growth across the Union. Developing new technologies and agricultural products can help the environment and have a positive impact on rural development. In addition, it would ensure a strong domestic and sustainable European food supply offering consumers a wide choice of healthy and diverse food.