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Wallonia's fields remain GM free

12:23 30/09/2015

Wallonia has been given the green light by the European Commission to prevent the cultivation of genetically modified crops on its territory. The move is allowed under European Union rules, introduced in March, that allow countries to exclude genetically modified crops from part or all of their territory.

In contrast, genetically modified crops are already being grown in Flanders. According to La Libre Belgique, a field trial involving genetically modified poplars was authorised in late 2013, with permission to run for a period of seven years. These trees have been altered to produce increased yields of ethanol, which can be used as an alternative fuel.

Nine other EU countries have so far opted to exclude genetically modified crops, including Belgium's neighbours in the Netherlands and France. The only other country to request a partial ban is the UK, where Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have decided to avoid the crops.

Written by Ian Mundell

Comments

gellis

This is just amazing. We ask (demand!) all climate change deniers "to believe the science" and yet, when it comes to GM crops - which the science over and over and over again has demonstrated poses no risk to human health - we cheer GM-free territories as if this were a victory!
The science has amply demonstrated that GM crops can provide many benefits - from disease resistant varieties, to those which provide a higher yield, to those requiring lower levels of pesticides, amongst others. And yet, we continue to deny the science around GM crops whilst looking down our noses at the climate change deniers as a bunch of right-wing Luddites ...

http://www.nytimes.com/2015/04/25/opinion/sunday/how-i-got-converted-to-...

Sep 30, 2015 15:47
Mikek1300gt

While efficient Flemish farmers send money to Wallonia.

Sep 30, 2015 20:21