Our Perspective
GHI Releases Policy Brief, “Embracing Science-Based Technologies”
By Whitney Sparks, sustainability writer
Posted 11 months ago
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On June 13, 2011, Global Harvest Initiative (GHI) publicized a policy issue brief highlighting the importance of science-based technologies in addressing the challenges of feeding a growing nation sustainably. Food security is increasingly important to feed an estimated nine billion people by 2050.
The policy brief, "Embracing Science-Based Technologies," highlights the importance of meeting the needs of a growing population by closing the global agricultural productivity gap between supply and demand. This will require using existing and new technologies and innovations that are scientifically proven to safely and effectively increase agricultural productivity.
"As demonstrated by the significant productivity increases that resulted from the Green Revolution, new technologies and innovation have proven to enhance food security across the globe. But the situation we face today is different; not only will the global population hit seven billion this year, but we can no longer expect productivity improvements to come from additional land, water or inputs," said Dr. William G. Lesher, Global Harvest Initiative executive director. "We simply cannot meet the needs of the growing population unless we aggressively pursue and invest in new technologies and innovation, from enhanced seeds to storage, processing and transportation, to more efficient uses of irrigation."
Further, the fourth policy brief advocates for:
- Adequate funding for the development of innovative technologies
- More effective and timely regulatory process in order for the development, approval and adoption of new technologies worldwide
GHI's first three policy issue briefs addressed the following:
1. Improving Agricultural Research Funding, Structure And Collaboration
2. Removing Barriers To Global And Regional Trade In Agriculture
3. Strengthening And Streamlining Development Assistance Programs
GHI's forthcoming and final issue brief will address the critical role of the private sector in addressing food security.
