Applications of biotechnology in agriculture are in their infancy. Most current genetically-enhanced plant varieties are modified only for a single trait, such as herbicide tolerance or pest resistance. The rapid progress being made in genomics may enhance plant breeding to help secure better and more consistent yields. This would be of great benefit to those farming marginal lands worldwide. Arable land is disappearing and even if every acre is maximized using conventional agriculture, we start to come up short if we have to feed 8 billion people in 2025 and beyond.
Valuable work is already well underway on a number of fronts.
The Biotech Outlook History has shown us that new technologies are not without risk, but history has also shown us that the benefits of a new technology can be much greater than the risks. Assessment of risks in the light of benefits ought to be the very essence of the current debate over biotechnology. The opportunities are large and exciting, and we must continue to work with industry, governments, and other stakeholders to see to it that this potential is realized while addressing the questions and challenges before any new technology. Within our industry, we have the resources and capability to provide leadership to agriculture. The mission must be to serve the customer and create value for them.