Nanotechnology Could Kill Small Farmers

Summary posted by Meridian on 10/8/2008
Source: Philippine Information Agency
Author: Mai Gevera

Canada-based non-governmental organization ETC Group is warning that nanotechnology could potentially have negative implications for small-scale farmers, especially in developing countries. According to ETC’s executive director Pat Mooney, developed countries currently procure raw materials from developing countries, but nanotechnology could potentially reduce the need for such raw materials. Mooney cites investments by large companies in “nano-foods” that have enhanced taste and health benefits without the need for additional production costs. The article provides as an example a beverage that is sugar-free but contains an enzyme that blocks bitterness. ETC says that nanotechnology enabled food products could have implications for the livelihood of about 2.6 billion farming people worldwide. According to the article, these implications could be most severe for poor and marginalized people who face greater difficulties in foreseeing and adjusting to economic changes. Mooney said, "Among the most vulnerable will be small-scale farmers and agricultural workers who produce raw commodity exports in the developing world.” The article says that Mooney visitied the Philippines to “talk to different sectors in the community and share vital information needed by the public to prepare them for the big changes in the world market.” The article can be viewed online at the link below.

The original article may still be available at www.pia.gov.ph/?m=12&r=&y=&mo=&fi=p081008.htm&no=02

As tagged by Meridian Institute:

Implications: Socio-Economic Effects
Regions: North America, East and South Asia and the Pacific
Stakeholders: Government, Industry, NGO, Academia, International Institutions, Donors
Food And Agriculture: Food, Agriculture, Crops, Nutrition

Related Forums:

• Food and Agriculture
• Socio-Economic

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