Copenhagen, Denmark
September 10, 2008
Until now, 250 Danish farmers have
been trained to grow genetically modified crops. Therefore they
know what precautions to take to avoid spreading pollen and
seeds from genetically modified plants to their neighbours’
fields
So far no Danish farmers have cultivated genetically modified
crops. But as the authorities approve new maize and potato
varieties that are well suited for the Danish climate, a number
of Danish farmers will probably start to cultivate them.
Minister for Food, Agriculture and
Fisheries Eva Kjer Hansen is pleased that the farmers are
preparing for the challenge. “We must take advantage of the
genetically modified plants’ benefits, such as a better economy
and a cleaner environment. This means that the individual farmer
must know about our rules. The fact that 250 farmers have chosen
to study the new possibilities shows that the sector is ready to
tread new paths. Experimental cultivation of genetically
modified maize has already taken place in Denmark. It is
therefore positive that we in Denmark have regulations ready, so
we are prepared for commercial cultivation.”
So far in Denmark cultivation of GMO crops approved for
commercial cultivation have only taken place on a small area.
The following link shows where the GMO fields are located on an
electronic map of Denmark (in Danish only):
http://gmomark.pdir.dk/Default.aspx.
Denmark has had legislation for cultivating GMOs since 2004, so
farmers can grow genetically modified crops alongside
conventional and organic plants.
Danish agriculture already imports large quantities of
genetically modified soya, which is predominantly used as feed
for pigs and cattle. Genetically modified plants are grown on
114 million hectares around the world, equalling 8% of the total
cultivation area. The plants are primarily grown in the USA and
Argentina, but EU countries south of Denmark also produce
genetically modified maize. |
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