Swedish Gene Technology Advisory Board Releases Insightful Report on Gene-Edited Crops and Public Attitudes
In a groundbreaking report, the Swedish Gene Technology Advisory Board, or Gentekniknämnden, has unveiled findings on public opinion regarding gene-edited crops and farmed animals in Sweden. Titled "The Public Opinion in Sweden on Gene-Edited Crops and Farmed Animals," the report explores the views of Swedes on agricultural gene editing, particularly through innovative techniques like CRISPR/Cas9.
These advanced gene editing methods, which enable precise alterations to DNA in living organisms—mimicking natural mutations without introducing foreign genes—are noted as significant breakthroughs of the 21st century. According to a 2021 collaborative survey conducted by the Advisory Board and Novus, a majority of Swedish citizens expressed support for gene-edited crops, especially when tangible societal benefits were apparent. However, the report highlights concerns around the general low public knowledge regarding gene technology, with only half of respondents having heard about gene editing before.
Support was particularly strong for specific applications; for instance, 71% of participants favored gene editing to create late blight-resistant potatoes, with only 21% opposing it. Overall, 77% of respondents believe that gene editing for certain purposes is appropriate, while just 11% deemed it always wrong.
Gentekniknämnden’s mission is to promote the responsible use of gene technology and to educate policymakers and the public about these important issues. This comprehensive study aims to enhance understanding of public sentiment towards gene editing in agriculture.
For more detailed insights, the full report is available for public viewing.
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