Abstract

Reference: Pew 2001
Title: Harvest on the Horizon: Future Uses of Agricultural Biotechnology 
Authors: Pew Initiative on Food and Biotechnology
Publisher: Pew Initiative on Food and Biotechnology, 1331 H Street, Suite 900, Washington, DC 20009 USA
Publication details:  September 2001, 106p.

Harvest on the Horizon provides an overview of the breadth of today's agricultural biotechnology research efforts. It describes what may be forthcoming in the next generation of genetically engineered agricultural products. Much of the research cited is at an early stage, and many of the applications face significant technical, economic, marketing and regulatory issues before they can be brought to market. This report is intended to help inform that debate by illustrating the range of potential uses of agricultural biotechnology being explored by scientists. Future reports and activities of the Pew Initiative on Food and Biotechnology will examine the broader public policy issues raised by agricultural biotechnology.

Industry and university scientists are applying the new tools of biotechnology across a broad range of plants and animals for a wide variety of possible future uses. Much of this research remains at early stages. The broad scope of current research suggests challenges ahead. As new products emerge, state and federal regulators tasked with the responsibility to protect the environment and ensure the safety of food are likely to face novel questions. Public attitudes about biotechnology will be affected both by the adequacy of the regulatory response and the perceived benefits and risks of the particular products brought to market. In that context, understanding the potential uses of this technology can help us anticipate and prepare for these coming questions. Whether today's research projects become tomorrow's products will depend not only on continued scientific progress, but also on addressing the public's concerns about the technology and on the realities of the marketplace.

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