RAYMOND, Iowa --- Catholic Church leaders sought information about genetically modified organisms and how they may or may not help developing countries, so they turned to an Iowan for help.The rest at WCF Courier
Andrew Apel of Raymond was one of 40 experts from 17 countries to travel to the Vatican in May 2009 to give his views on biotechnology in agriculture. The group released its findings Dec. 1.
As a Catholic, Apel said he was excited to help the church. Professionally, the independent consultant specializing in GMO crops said it's a huge honor to be considered a worldwide expert in the field.
"As far as a lifetime experience, I don't think it can be surpassed," Apel said.
The Pontifical Academy of Sciences --- an independent source of objective information upon which the Holy See and its various bodies can draw --- hosted a study week on "Transgenic Plants for Food Security in the Context of Development." Solving world hunger, thus saving lives, has been a longtime concern of the Vatican.
Each of the participants --- including scientists, scholars, religious leaders and government officials --- presented information in their area of expertise followed by a round of discussion. The group unanimously endorsed the easing of restrictions on genetically modified crops, especially in poorer countries. GMOs are safe and help increase yields and nutritional quality of crops, the group said.
I'm a food hippie so don't get me started. I wonder if better farming techniques, irrigation, ect might be a better investment of effort. I'm not saying GMO is immoral of course, but just that natural farming is healthier and more viable.
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