Gene Editing Legislation could undermine clean and green

  • 12 January 2025
  • Celia Hay

To make a submission

Submissions Close: midnight on 17 February 2024

https://www.parliament.nz/en/pb/sc/make-a-submission/document/54SCHEA_SCF_22059628-B0CC-4931-5E07-08DD18A12BFB/gene-technology-bill#RelatedAnchor

Latest news

Splitting gene tech law could lessen economic risks to NZ: Bundling widely supported applications of gene science with much more risky uses in the outdoors fails to properly protect NZ Inc from harm

Organics Aotearoa

Concerned Farmers NZ

Read Rural News article

Treaty Partnership

Newsroom story GMO-Free 'radical" reset on gene tech - expert.

Proposed Gene Editing Legislation which will allow Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) currently before Parliament could undermine New Zealand's clean and green image.

New Zealand is globally celebrated for our pristine landscapes, biodiversity, agricultural heritage and progressive food system which is encapsulated in the "Clean, Green” descriptor.

This image, and the reputation of New Zealand, inspires national pride and is imbedded in our tourism and hospitality culture and the branding of our food, beverage and agricultural exports.

Many countries and their consumers, especially in Europe, North America and Asia, have strict regulations or preferences against GMOs and gene-edited products, risking market access and consumer trust for our exports. In addition, our inbound tourism and hospitality experience is centred on the concept of "Clean, Green” .

Public submissions are OPEN until February 17 2025.

Slowly, we have been building a culture of fine food and cuisine

The proposed legislation to ease restrictions on gene editing and production of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) could potentially undermine this carefully cultivated identity. Loosening the current regulations could tarnish New Zealand's reputation as a global leader in natural, sustainable, and eco-friendly practices. 

What is gene editing?

Gene technology is used to modify genes in human or animal health, medicines, and food production. Gene editing is a technique to induce specific targeted changes in an organism’s existing genome to achieve a specific desired outcome. 

Researchers argue that gene editing has the potential to develop crops that are resistant to pests and diseases, reduce the need for synthetic pesticides and enhance farm productivity. The unintended consequences of the gene-edited is that they could harm ecosystems, compete with native species or introduce unforeseen changes to vegetables, fruits, animals and trees and our natural environment.

Current Framework

New Zealand’s current approach to genetic engineering and gene editing sits under the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996. Any genetic modification or gene editing activity requires extensive risk assessments and public consultation. This cautious stance aligns with New Zealand’s commitment to protecting our environment and clean and green image.

The proposed legislation proposed to relax these regulations, particularly in agriculture. It is argued that changes are necessary for New Zealand to remain competitive in global markets dominated by technologically advanced farming systems. Many people, however consider that such a significant change could lead to long-term damage to New Zealand’s environmental and economic reputation.

Consumer Perception of New Zealand Products

New Zealand’s global brand, as a producer of natural, high-quality agricultural-based exports including dairy, meat, wine and other food products— emphasizes that production of these products is based on natural and sustainable farming practices.

International consumers, in high-value markets such as Europe and North America increasingly choose non-GMO and organic products. If New Zealand adopts gene editing technology, we risks alienating these important consumers. This could in turn result in the loss of markets particularly if consumers can no longer differentiate our food exports from countries using intensive, technology-driven farming practices.

Risks to International Tourism

In-bound international Tourism contributes significantly to New Zealand’s economy. Visitors look to experience unspoiled landscapes and nature and foods produced in sustainable way. A shift toward gene editing could undermine this perception.

Global media coverage of this policy change may amplify the position of New Zealand in negative ways. 

Find out more

Read the Ministry of Business Innovation and Enterprise (MBIE)  Regulatory Impact Statement

https://www.mbie.govt.nz/dmsdocument/29936-regulatory-impact-statement-reform-of-gene-technology-regulation-pdf

Read the Bill

https://www.legislation.govt.nz/bill/government/2024/0110/7.0/LMS1009752.html

 

Celia Hay

12/1/2025

Share this post