06 May 2025
(English translation of the synopsis and the introduction of CCRS director Dr. Philipp Aerni's opinion post in the printed newspaper NZZ on 05.05.2025. Its German original title «Neue genomische Verfahren in der Pflanzenzüchtung: Nachhaltigkeit braucht Innovation» literally stands for «New genomic techniques in plant breeding: Sustainability requires innovation»).
Synopsis
New genomic techniques like gene editing represent a more precise evolution of well-established breeding methods such as mutagenesis—and offer significant potential for more sustainable agriculture. Despite decades of research and practical use showing few new risks, public debate in Switzerland remains heavily shaped by ideological reservations. A new draft law from the Federal Council missed to pave the way for a more nuanced and innovation-friendly regulatory approach.
Introduction by NZZ
New breeding techniques for agriculture are ultimately a refinement of traditional and accepted genetic engineering – namely mutagenesis.
In 2005, Swiss voters voted in favor of a temporary moratorium on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in agriculture. Scientists were encouraged to investigate the risks to the environment and health more closely. These results were available in the fall of 2012, but shortly before, Parliament had voted to extend the moratorium further. This was convenient because it made a discussion of the highly differentiated research results unnecessary.