Time to restart genetic modification debate?
An expert on genetic modification says though young people can see the possibilities with the technology, some people are still living in a time warp in regards to it.
The government's chief science advisor warns that some scientists in New Zealand use their scientific standing to make claims well beyond available evidence and their own expertise.
Sir Peter Gluckman based his comments, to the Joint Research Centre of the European Commission in Brussels, on his eight years of experience as chief science advisor to the NZ government; he also holds international positions. His keynote address paper addressed the role of science in society and, in particular, its role in policy making.
Gluckman says some scientists display excessive pride and self-confidence – even arrogance -- in their comments on government policy.
“Scientists need to appreciate that politicians make their decisions based on values as well as scientific evidence. [Scientists’] arrogance can become the biggest enemy [hindering] science in effectively engaging with policy; the policy decisions inevitably involve dimensions beyond science.”
He says scientists need to appreciate that political ideology and financial, diplomatic and even electoral constraints must also be heeded by politicians.
Gluckman says he has avoided using the somewhat arrogant term ‘evidence-based policy’, preferring the more appropriate ‘evidence-informed policy’.
The CEO of Apples and Pears NZ, Karen Morrish, says the strategic focus of her organisation is to improve grower returns.
A significant breakthrough in understanding facial eczema (FE) in livestock brings New Zealand closer to reducing the disease’s devastating impact on farmers, animals, and rural communities.
Farmer co-operative LIC has closed its satellite-backed pasture measurement platform – Space.
OPINION: The case of four Canterbury high country stations facing costly and complex consent hearing processes highlights the dilemma facing the farming sector as the country transitions into a replacement for the Resource Management Act (RMA).
The 2024-25 season apple harvest has “well and truly exceeded expectations”, says Apples and Pears NZ chief executive Karen Morrish.
Through collaborative efforts with exhibitors, visitors, and industry partners, Fieldays says it is reaffirming its commitment to environmental responsibility with new initiatives for 2025.
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