The lack of this authority has undermined America's fundamental ability to lead global market-opening efforts. We must also advance an ambitious agenda for the next round of global trade talks. And we are honored to have Director-General Mike Moore here today to help bring urgency to this quest. Second, technology development and adoption through research, education and extension are leading to new products, increased productivity, and more environmentally friendly farming. In order for the U.S. agricultural economy to remain competitive, we need to accelerate our search for innovative uses for farm products.
Energy is a prime example.
The nation needs new sources of clean, dependable energy and agriculture needs new markets - a coincidence of needs upon which we should capitalize. Research into biomass technology could develop efficient fuels and other chemicals from virtually any plant or plant product. Third, our regulatory environment must not be so burdensome that it places undue costs on the farm economy. That's why we will ensure that regulations must be based on sound science and common sense with solutions involving local input wherever possible. A continuing challenge to agriculture is pest and disease prevention and eradication.