permaculture

140 Facilitator’s Handbook for Permaculture Workshops

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Presentation : Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO)

Method : Facilitator presentation

Tools : Images of seed related problems, IDEP GMO Fact Sheets

References : IDEP GMO Fact Sheets, PC Book MOD 5 – Seed Saving and Nurseries

Objective : Participants learn about GMO and hybrid seed related problems

Most seeds used in agriculture today is produced in laboratories and factories

by big corporations. There are three main types of factory-produced seeds:

• Single parent variety seeds.


• Hybrid seeds – Made by forced crossed pollination.


• Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) seeds – Made by combining the genes of
  different species.

There are many GMO crops being field tested and researched in Indonesia. Most of the

research and trials are being undertaken without the knowledge of the general public.

These commercially produced seeds are creating many problems for farmers, consumers,

and the environment in general.

Costs

• High production costs for farmers – Seeds and the chemicals needed to
  grow them.


• Lower yields - Studies show that GMO crops can actually produce lower yields
  over time.

Seed problems

• Inability to save and self-produce seeds – Seeds saved from factory
  produced seeds are generally not viable or consistent.


• Loss of local seed varieties – As less people save and use them.


• Seeds are not locally adapted – Factory seeds are coated with chemicals
  making them less resilient and requiring use of various chemicals to grow.

Environmental damage

• Water and soil pollution.


• Beneficial insects and animals may be affected.


• Competition with native plants for sunlight, nutrients, and water.