Consensus Conference to Consider Genetically Modified Crops
The first and second meetings served as preparation, and the third was held as the main gathering, wherein citizens and specialists engaged in deep discussions. The fourth meeting, a citizens only meeting, was summarized in a report entitled “Citizens’ Thoughts and Proposals.” Experts developing genetic engineering technology asserted that the technology is effective for addressing global environment problems. For example, they stated that it can resolve issues surrounding the expected rapid population growth, the associated food crisis, and the reduction of pesticides. However, although citizens recognized the potential of genetic engineering technology, they expressed concerns regarding problems arising from extensive use, noting examples such as chlorofluorocarbons, plastic, and asbestos. They stated that they were perturbed that development and research on its practical use might cause problems. Further R&D of the technology is being given precedence over research to confirm its safety. Regarding this issue, several specialists explained that as a result of intellectual property rights being recognized in genetic engineering technology, companies saw that the potential for enormous profit by creating new breeds, therefore choosing to engage in development. Citizens expected specialists to always have a unified unique solution on scientific issues and were surprised by their diverse opinions. On the last day, when the “Citizens’ Thoughts and Proposals” report was prepared, it was difficult to finish the report within the allotted time. A particularly heated discussion occurred concerning the prospects for genetic engineering technology development as well as the future of genetically modified food products. Most citizens held that as long as genetically modified food exists and is in circulation, there should be a certain level of regulation to ensure that technological development will be performed in moderation. Furthermore, although in the minority, one person sought the complete abolition of genetically engineered food. Though majority couldn’t accept this opinion, but they didn’t ignore it and the final report recorded it as a minority opinion.
2014年02月27日公開 | Our experience
