GMW: GM Crops? A Christian Response

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GMW: GM Crops? A Christian Response

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Sun, 31 Jul 2005 23:07:01 +0100

 

 

 

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Below are some excerpts from 'GM Crops? A Christian Response',

published by Christian Ecology Link (CEL), which has now been thoroughly

updated and revised.

 

Single copies of CELs leaflet (eight pages; bright yellow paper) can be

obtained free by sending an A5 stamped addressed envelope to CEL

Publications, 40 The Avenue, Roundhay, Leeds, LS8 1JG. It is also

available

as a pdf file at <www.christian-ecology.org.uk/gmo.htm>.

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GM CROPS?

A Christian Response

[excerpts]

 

Our approach to genetically modified (GM) crops is based on care for

God's creation (Gen. 2.15), respect for the nature of God's creatures,

and the 'precautionary principle'. The onus of proof is on the scientists

and industrialists engaged in genetic engineering to show beyond

reasonable doubt that their activities are not threatening to humans or

wildlife. This approach is not anti-science.

 

Technological developments, intended to be beneficial, have often

increased environmental threats. The introduction of GM crops might

prove to

have a similar outcome. The leading aid agencies, such as Christian

Aid, Oxfam and Action Aid, agree that GM crops will not solve world

hunger.

 

Indeed, there is a close association between the promotion of GM

technology and the ambition of transnational corporations to control

world

trade thus undermining local growers and their markets. In short, the

case for GM crops lacks credibility.

 

A Christian and ethical response to GM crops

 

* Intrinsic value. We challenge the utilitarian assumption that the

only worthwhile living species are those which can be used by humans and

that other flora and fauna are expendable. Other species have intrinsic

value and are not merely collections of genes and chemicals or

resources for human use (Gen. 1.24-25).

 

* Human 'dominion'. Humans have responsibility for a 'garden' Earth

which belongs to God. We have a duty of care for our fellow creatures

which includes showing respect for the distinct nature of each. The

commission to till and keep the garden is often given too managerial,

manipulative a spin (Gen. 2.15).

 

* Reticence. Humans are clever but wisdom is found in respect for God's

constraints (Job 28).

 

* Getting the balance right. The potential benefits of GM crops should

not be ignored, but they need to be weighed very carefully against the

risks. Before deciding whether to accept GM technology, we need

objective scientific evidence from independent institutions, concerned

only

for public and environmental interest, to show how GM crops and food are

different and yet at least as safe as those produced by other farming

methods - both for those who eat them and for the countryside in which

they are grown.

 

* Some church spokespeople seem inclined to place too much trust in the

GM industry and technology, ignoring the serious questions that are

increasingly being raised about the likely consequences of badly

controlled releases into the environment.

 

* Patenting living organisms claims ownership of what was considered

'common property' and not owned by anyone. Biotech companies currently

have power and assert 'ownership' over certain living organisms, without

accepting responsibility for them or for their effect upon the

environment.

 

* Christian social teaching encourages a preferential option for the

poor. Christian Aid, Cafod (Catholic Agency for Overseas Development )

and the CIIR (Catholic Institute for International Relations) are among

development agencies questioning GM crops. Far from ending starvation,

applying GM technology could place too much power over food into too few

hands and leave the poor more vulnerable. Fair distribution of food and

land would have more effect.

 

* World development. GM foods are inextricably linked to what many

believe to be an unsustainable global economic system and will encourage

the further industrialisation of agriculture.

 

* Christian ethical concerns include environmental sustainability and

dietary choice as well as the relief of poverty. People who take a

principled precautionary stance against GM technology are entitled to

products wholly free from GM ingredients.

 

* The Christian 'good neighbour' principle requires an evaluation of

the potential indirect long-term effects of GM crops on the health,

environment and society of others.

 

* Justice. Organic farmers will suffer injustice when they are no

longer able to market their produce as organic because it is

contaminated by

nearby farms growing GM crops.

 

Action and information

 

* Send your views on GM crops to CEL's Information Officer and we will

pass them on to the

appropriate people in your denomination. (CEL, 3 Bond Street, Lancaster

LA1 3ER.)

 

For more information contact CEL, 3 Bond Street, Lancaster LA1 3ER.

Tel. 01524 33858. Email info

http://www.christian-ecology.org.uk

 

 

 

 

 

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