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Approaching Development: GMO Propaganda and Neoliberalism vs Localisation and Agroecology
Todhunter, Colin
http://countercurrents.org/2018/11/19/approaching-development-gmo-propaganda-and-neoliberalism-vs-localisation-and-agroecology/Date Written: 2018-11-19 Publisher: Countercurrents Year Published: 2018 Resource Type: Article Cx Number: CX23075 A look at the pro GMO (Genetically Modified Organisms) lobby and the reasons why they are pushing GMO technology. The article looks towards agroecology as a better means of achieving genuine food sovereignty. Abstract: -- Excerpt: The industrial agriculture that Worstall compares Indian farmers' productivity with is outperformed by smallholder-based agriculture in terms of, for example, diversity of food output, nutrition per acre and efficient water use. Imagine what could be achieved on a level playing field whereby smallholder farming receives the type of funding and political commitment currently given to industrial agriculture. In fact, we do not have to imagine; in places where agroecology has been scaled up, we are beginning to see the benefits. The principles of agroecology include self-reliance, localisation and food sovereignty. This type of agriculture does not rely on top-down corporate 'science', corporate owned or controlled seeds or proprietary inputs. It is potentially more climate resilient, labour intensive (job creating), more profitable for farmers and can contribute to soil quality and nutrient-enhanced/diverse diets. Moreover, it could help reinvigorate rural India and its villages. Subject Headings |