Messages from citizens and plant producers on the future of gene editing

Genome editing techniques (GE techniques) have been adopted worldwide as part of modern plant breeding methods. EU legislation equates organisms produced using GE methods with genetically modified organisms, whereas elsewhere in the world they may be treated similar to traditional varieties. Unlike transgenic genetic material, genetic material modified using GE methods cannot necesarily be identified retrospectively. Together, these factors may cause the EU to lag behind in biotechnological competitiveness. The European Commission is considering changes to the interpretation of GE methods within the scope of GMO regulation. Legislative change is being slowed down by the intense debate surrounding genome editing in general. There is little research data available on the knowledge base, attitudes and importance of communication underlying the debate, especially with regard to agricultural producers.

The KaVEdiT project is collecting comprehensive information through discussions and surveys on the attitudes of consumers and plant producers towards genome editing and their willingness to adopt varieties produced using these methods. The growing understanding supports domestic policy-making and the knowledge of food chain operators, including the short-term effects of deregulation.