In our A Bigger Conversation meetings we often encounter questions and concepts related to genome editing in food and farming that are worth exploring further. The intersection of precaution and innovation is one such issue. […]
Keeping the conversation going during the lockdown
The coronavirus, and the global lockdown which has been the response to it, has taken its toll on many different types of organisations and ours is no exception. Here’s how we plan to continue our work.
The uncomfortable truth about GMOs and co-existence
A new report suggests that while plant breeders of all kinds support the idea of ‘working together’ – there are few practical or regulatory pathways for achieving ‘co-existence’
New UK regulations on genetically engineered foods
As the UK prepares to leave the EU vast amounts of legislation are being transferred, via Statutory Instruments (SIs), from EU law to the UK. Amongst these are regulations relating […]
Gene-editing for conservation? Survey finds the public is ‘wary’
The applications of CRISPR based genetic engineering tools range from changing colors in butterfly wings to developing gene therapies that might one day cure or prevent human diseases. Some scientists […]
New report brings focus to gene-edited farm animals
A Bigger Conversation and Compassion in World Farming today release a comprehensive report on gene-edited animals. The report, a summary of a roundtable convened by the two organisations in June […]
FDA Finds Unexpected Antibiotic Resistance Genes in ‘Gene-Edited’ Dehorned Cattle
Gene-editing is seen by many as the ultimate in precision breeding. Polled cattle, whose horns have been genetically removed, have been presented as exemplars of this–a socially beneficial use of […]
Moving the discussion around GE animals beyond soundbites
This week an unusually diverse group of stakeholders gathered together to discuss a rapidly developing issue in animal agriculture – gene edited livestock. The day-long roundtable meeting, which was co-hosted […]
Scientists call for a moratorium on heritable human gene-editing
A group of 18 scientists and bioethicists from seven countries has called for a “global moratorium” on all clinical uses of human germline editing to ‘re-engineer’ humans.
Uncertainty versus risk
Uncertainties can make it hard to plan ahead. But recognising them can help to reveal new questions and choices. What kinds of uncertainty are there, why do they matter for sustainability, and what ideas, approaches and methods can help us to respond to them?