ISP letter to the Archbishop Renato R. Martino
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Archbishop Renato R. Martino Your Excellency, Please allow me to address you on behalf of the Independent Science Panel (ISP)
on Genetic Modification (GM). The ISP consists of two dozen prominent scientists
from seven countries, spanning diverse disciplines, and who are concerned to
provide critical scientific information to the global debate over genetic engineered
crops, in view of its importance for the future of our food and agriculture. We understand from our colleagues at the Third World Network that the Pontifical
Council for Justice and Peace is examining the various aspects of the GMO issue
from the scientific, ethical and humanitarian perspectives. We are encouraged
by your efforts to foster understanding and deepen our knowledge on these new
technologies. In this regard, I am pleased to enclose a copy of the ISP’s report,
The Case for a GM Free Sustainable
World, which is an extensive review of the scientific and other evidence
on the problems and hazards of GM crops and the manifold benefits of all forms
of sustainable agriculture. Based on this, we are calling for a global ban on
environmental release of GM crops, to make way for agroecology, organic farming
and other forms of sustainable agriculture. It is clear, from the evidence presented in the ISP Report, that there are
many unanswered questions on the safety of GM crops. Very few studies have been
conducted, particularly as to the effects of GM foods on human health, and the
few independent studies that have been carried out raise serious concerns, as
pointed out by two recent review papers [1, 2]. Recent research (the ‘farm-scale evaluations’) in the UK further
documents how GM crops affect the environment and wildlife negatively. Given
the scientific uncertainties and the likelihood that once transgenic crops are
released into the environment, transgenic contamination of non-GM crops is inevitable,
it is imperative that the Precautionary Principle is applied. More importantly, there is increasing evidence that many smallholder farmers
in developing countries already have the knowledge, experience and innovative
spirit that enable them to farm sustainably and productively, without depending
on GM crops. We need to learn from them, and this means rethinking agriculture
and associated policy making, and exploring how traditional knowledge and science
can work together. We hope that this report contributes to your discussions on GMOs. Yours Sincerely,
2. Ian R. Pryme & Rolf Lembcke (2003) In vivo studies
on possible health consequences of genetically modified food and food - With
particular regard to ingredients consisting of
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© 2003 Independent Science Panel