‘Power of genetics’: Seed industry sees plant breeding innovation as key to sustainable agriculture

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“Innovations in plant breeding are enabling us to develop plants that meet the needs of a changing world,” said President of the International Seed Federation (ISF) Jean-Christophe Gouache at the opening ceremony of the ISF World Seed Congress 2018 in Brisbane, Australia. “This is down to the ‘power of genetics,’” he said. “Unlocking the potential of genetic resources to produce more with less is the fantastic mission of the seed industry over the coming decades.”

“In previous decades, it was enough to use genetic power to boost the efficiency of agriculture. Increasingly, we need to anticipate the role and the impact of our products to ensure that farming systems are more resilient and more sustainable than ever before,” said Mr Gouache. “Yes, the ‘power of genetics’ can deliver on both efficiency and sustainability,” he concluded.

Honorable Senator James McGrath, Assistant Minister to the Australian Prime Minister, told delegates: “The responsibility for delivering higher yields and more nutritious food rests on the innovation that the seed industry brings to world food production. Your organizations support the entire food chain globally, and are driving innovation in food and fodder production.”

Read full, original article: Industry’s mission to unlock the potential of genetics shared at World Seed Congress

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