September 15th, 2015
Gene therapy for a changing climate
Published by Agriculture for Impact, August 18th, 2015
This blog on Agriculture for Impact elaborates on some examples in which genetic improvements for seeds and livestock varieties provided benefits to smallholders. Genetic intensification incorporates conventional breeding and the use of biotechnology to cultivate crops and livestock breeds that satisfy a number of needs and can overcome challenges, such as climate change. Although many of these technologies remain controversial, they are gaining wider acceptance. The author argues that these technologies will need to become an important part of the response to reducing food insecurity in Africa, especially as climate change threatens agricultural productivity and livelihoods.