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Ag Biotech and Seed Systems Questions for Instructors?

Ag Biotech and Seed Systems FAQ

Modules and video lessons for researchers, scientists, technical experts

1. Biotechnology for crops

• Ways of modifying food; CRISPR genome editing as a modern breeding technology
• Plant transformation; how to test for biotech traits

2. Biotechnology for livestock

• Principles of animal breeding and genetics, regulatory system for GM livestock, animal breeders’ rights

3. Biotechnology for fisheries and aquatic resources

• Applications of GE and GM for fisheries and aquaculture in the developing world, Part 1
• Applications of GE and GM for fisheries and aquaculture in the developing world, Part 2
• Factors affecting public and regulatory acceptance of biotech aquatic organisms

4. Policies and regulations

• Commercial and public R&D of genetically engineered and genome-edited plants
• Policies and regulations governing GM and GE products
• Intellectual property
• Licensing policy for genetic materials
• International treaties related to ag biotech, plant breeding, and seed systems

5. National and international legal aspects

• Cartegena biosafety protocol
• Supplementary protocol on liability and redress, codex, and other international treaties
• National biosafety laws and other laws that impact GMOs
• Gene editing regulation around the world
• Biosafety regulation compliance, monitoring, evaluation
• Plant breeders' rights under UPOV convention

6. Seed systems

• Variety release and registration
• Accreditation for seed certification
• Harmonization of regional seed policies and regulations
• Quality management
• Linkages between seed and biosafety agencies
• Initiatives to ensure farmers’ access to quality seeds
• Incorporating biotechnology and innovative breeding techniques into seed sector improvement initiatives
• Phytosanitary measures, seed import/export procedures

7. Risk analysis

• Risk analysis of GM crops with focus on risk assessment and risk management
• Biotech stewardship and compliance; OECD consensus documents and biosafety

8. Post-harvest aspects

• Post-harvest handling, storage, processing, and utilization of biotech-derived crops

9. Potential impacts of policies and regulations in biotech innovation

• Socioeconomic considerations in decision-making
• Impact and implications for the cost of complying with biosafety regulations
• Gender and biotech

10. Risk and benefits communication

• The biotech communication environment: Research findings on the idiosyncratic mind and their implications for communication efforts
• Activating the reluctant sources: Best practices in engaging with the media for scientists, researchers, administrators

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