The issue
Modern biotechnology enables scientists to change and transfer genes in organisms, giving them new attributes. Genes can be modified, or transferred from one species to another, to enhance or decrease specific characteristics. In agriculture, plants can be enhanced in ways that are impossible or difficult to achieve through conventional breeding methods. They can, for example, be made tolerant of specific herbicides or resistant to insects and diseases, to have increased oil or vitamin content, or to ripen in a different manner.

Attitudes of biotechnology and genetic modification (GM) vary greatly. In the US and Canada, the technology has been generally accepted. However, in some other regions, particularly Europe, genetic modification as a route to innovative foods and feed is being challenged. Concerns have been voiced about food safety and environmental issues.

Syngenta position
Through plant biotechnology we have the potential to bring considerable benefits to food production, food quality, human health and sustainable agriculture in both developed and developing countries.

As the public becomes more informed about the benefits of these products - and about the use of science to explore and understand safety issues and risks - we believe that products created through biotechnology will gain widespread public acceptance. Our responses on specific issues are:

Food safety and environmental effects. Crops derived through modern biotechnology are thoroughly tested for their safety and potential environmental effects by independent scientists and government regulators before they are allowed to be planted commercially.

Several years of experience with the widespread use of these crops support the conclusion that approved GM crops are as safe as their conventional counterparts.

Cross-pollination and genetic resources. GM pollen behaves just like ordinary pollen. We already know a lot about pollen flow from the well-established practices that ensure the production of seed to high standards of purity. Good management practices, keeping GM and conventional seed crops appropriate distances apart, can continue to ensure seed purity for both GM and conventional seed production. If pollination does occur between GM plants and wild species, it does not necessarily mean that the impact on natural habitats will be any more than for conventional hybrid seeds. However, as with all its products, Syngenta carefully monitors their effects on the environment.

As part of its commitment to sustainable agriculture, Syngenta supports the activities of germplasm resource centers (seed banks and biological databases), such as the Centro Internacional de Mejoramiento de Maz y Trigo in Mexico. The company believes that they are vital in conserving these resources for future generations.

Farming practices. We envision the future of agriculture as a combination of advanced plant varieties, including genetically enhanced crops, modern crop protection methods and other agricultural techniques appropriate to local conditions. The main objective is to contribute to the production of abundant, high-quality food that brings good economic returns to farmers while respecting social and environmental considerations.

Food production and hunger. We believe that biotechnology can help to improve food production and health in the developing world. For example, we support the development of a variety of rice, known as Golden Rice, that produces beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A. In many developing countries, vitamin A deficiency is a common source of illness and a major cause of blindness, especially in children. The Syngenta Foundation is also helping to share innovative biotechnology to support the specific needs of subsistence farmers in developing countries.

Labeling. Syngenta is in favor of freedom of choice. All food products derived from crops enhanced through biotechnology must pass rigorous safety tests before they can be sold for human consumption. Labeling of these products is not an issue of food safety, but of consumer choice. The company is committed to working with the food supply chain and local regulators to provide meaningful information for consumers. Syngenta adheres to all local labeling laws. All of our seeds enhanced through biotechnology are labeled as such. This allows for labeling further down the food chain where it is required by law or customer demand.

Syngenta will continue to participate in the public debate. Our policy in biotechnology has been one of openness based on:

• Information about plant science and genetics
• Clarity on the benefits of biotechnology in terms of risk / benefit analysis
• Emphasis on consumer choice