Prevar is conducting discussions in Nelson and Hawke's Bay to shed light on gene editing. The initiative, in collaboration with Plant & Food Research, aims to dissect the multifaceted benefits of gene editing technology for science, consumers, industry, and the environment within New Zealand. Tony Martin, Prevar's CEO, highlighted the potential regulatory reforms in gene editing to bolster New Zealand's agricultural competitiveness and address climate change's negative effects on agriculture and the environment.
Martin pointed out New Zealand's delay in adopting a regulatory framework for advanced breeding technologies, which may have restricted innovation beneficial to the industry. He emphasized that gene editing could expedite the development of new fruit varieties, which traditionally take 15 to 20 years, by enhancing nutritional value, flavor, consistency, and availability for consumers. According to Martin, gene editing is a refinement of natural processes, offering precision akin to conventional breeding while also reducing pesticide and fertilizer use and enhancing food sustainability. The sessions are scheduled for Tuesday afternoon in Nelson and Thursday afternoon in Hawke's Bay.
Source: FarmersWeekly