Information Papers
Monday, September 17th, 2012
Gene technology and patents
The patent system is designed to provide an incentive to innovation—so that those who have invested money on research and development are given the opportunity to obtain a reward for their expenditure, and to promote the spread and use of knowledge.
GM crops and the marketplace
Two herbicide tolerant genetically modified (GM) canola varieties were approved by the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR) in 2003. Concerns about the market impact of GM canola led to moratoria being imposed by some state governments on the commercial production of GM canola varieties.
Developing countries and biotechnology
The world population is growing at a rate of 1.2 per cent, or 77 million people per year according to the United Nations (UN). This information paper investigates the impact of biotechnology on developing countries, where nearly all of the population growth is predicted to occur.
GM crops and climate change
This information paper aims to explore the implications climate change may have on global agriculture and the role gene technology could play in contributing to climate change solutions.
Climate change and its current and potential impacts have an increasing profile globally. A growing number of countries are looking to implement policies and actions aimed at managing the impacts of climate change. In Australia, the Commonwealth Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency was established in 2007 to drive activities in this area.
Climate change and its current and potential impacts have an increasing profile globally. A growing number of countries are looking to implement policies and actions aimed at managing the impacts of climate change. In Australia, the Commonwealth Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency was established in 2007 to drive activities in this area.
Biotechnology and the environment
The International Society for Environmental Biotechnology (ISEB) defines environmental biotechnology as, ‘the integration of science and engineering for the development, use and regulation of biological systems for remediation of contaminated environments (land, air, water), and for environment-friendly processes development (green manufacturing technologies and sustainable development).’
Biotechnology and animal production
This fact sheet explores the use of gene technology and biotechnology in animal production in agriculture. Globally, there is much research underway in this area.
Animal feed and GM crops
Much discussion has taken place over the safety of genetically modified (GM) crops and foods. A focus point in this discussion is GM crops fed to animals, particularly those animals such as cattle, sheep and poultry that provide food for consumers.
GM food regulation
Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) aims to protect the health and safety of the people in Australia and New Zealand by maintaining a safe
Gene technology regulation
Australia’s national gene technology regulatory system came into force in June 2001 as a result of the Gene Technology Act 2000 legislation. It aims to identify and manage risks to human health and the environment posed by, or as a result of, gene technology.
Biotechnology: the science
Biotechnology is the use of biological systems — living things — to make or change products. It has been used for centuries in traditional activities like baking bread and cheese and yoghurt making.