In part two of understanding the transformative world of genetic modification in crop production, Leonard Oberholzer, the Bayer Crop Science Corn go-to-market lead for Africa unpacks the environmental implications of genetic modification strategies to mitigate negative impacts on ecosystems.
Furthermore, listeners will gain insights into the pivotal functions played by research institutions and biotechnology companies in providing support to farmers. Additionally, expert recommendations on effectively monitoring the performance of genetically modified crops will be discussed.
Biotech and pest control
In the South African context, as highlighted by Oberholzer, their focus is on addressing two significant challenges faced by farmers. “Biotech in crops is the one and the other is insect control or pest control,” he shares.
Oberholzer also explains that they have also been able to combine these technologies within one plant. “You can have a glyphosate-tolerant plant combined with an insect resistance as well.”
ALSO READ: Maximise your crop efficiency with companion planting
Facts and research
Comprehending genetic modification in crops can be challenging, and that’s why Oberholzer advocates for researchers and farmers to connect with Bayer for accurate and reliable information.
“If you really want to get the correct facts, it’s good to reach out to us first. We do cooperate a lot with universities, and with some of the universities, we are still running biotechnology work.
“They are doing some of these non-target organism trials for us. We’ve been running insect resistance trials, as well as wheat resistance research.”
In this episode, Lemgo also discusses:
- Recommendations for new commercialising farmers; and
- Long-term strategies farmers can implement when it comes to the introduction of GMOs.
Want to know more? Listen to the full episode of Farmer’s Inside Track.
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Option 3: Click here to listen on Google Podcast.
ALSO LISTEN TO: Podcast: Revolutionising agri via modern crop modification
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