We all share a deep love and care for our natural resources and food systems. Many of us are taking steps towards food sovereignty by tending the soil, saving seeds and growing and sharing kai. We expect our government and science sector to care about the future of food in Aotearoa. However, a new Bill puts all of this at risk.
The Gene Technology Bill, which was introduced by the Government in December 2024 has been developed to remove existing rules around gene technology use and will lead to the deregulation of GMOs in Aotearoa.
Gene technology involves changing, controlling and manipulating the genes of living beings, such as plants, animals, bacteria and even soil microbes. The objective is to encourage these genes to behave in specific ways. What this creates is Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs). Most, but not all, GMOs involve transgenic modification, which means the transfer of materials between two unrelated organisms. It is very different from processes, such as selective breeding.
At Papawhakaritorito Trust, we try to protect our seed and soil. That is why we Say No To GMOs in any form and are advocating to Stop The Gene Technology Bill.
Why The Gene Technology Bill Is Reckless and Deeply Flawed?
The policy is based on politics and economic imperatives alone. It does not cite evidence and research nor is it developed through proper engagement with Māori and our mātauranga.
If passed into law, altered genes will quickly pervade our soil, seed and kai systems – impacting on the mauri and whakapapa of Papatūānuku and Hineahuone.
The bill has been rushed – fast-tracked by politicians working at the hands of life science corporations. The policy tramples on the mana of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Why Say No To Biopiracy in Aotearoa
Gene technology is often touted by global biotech companies as a catch-all solution to the world’s problems. Yet, at its heart, it is a deeply flawed process concentrating wealth and power in the hands of a few. The development of new GMOs is invasive.
GMOs cause harm by:
- Impacting on the mana, mauri and whakapapa of the organism and the inherent balance of te ao Tūroa (the natural world).
- Removing our right to Kai Atua (pure food) by taking away a safe and transparent food system.
- Empowering the capitalist patriarchy – companies can take out a patent and be the single, sole owner of the organism, further concentrating wealth and power from our food system to a select powerful few.
- Trampling on tino rangatiratanga
- Destabilising Hua Parakore and the connection to our tūpuna.
It’s why we are encouraging everyone who believes in our purpose of elevating Indigenous seed, soil and food sovereignty to stand up and have your say by making a submission to the Health Select Committee to Stop The Gene Technology Bill and Keep Aotearoa GMO-Free. Together we can stop this Bill!
Submissions must be made by 17 February 2025.
Want to learn how to produce a standout submission? Check out our handy writing guide to upload your submission today.
For more information check out our website.
Tihei Mauri Ora!
Ngā mihi,
Dr. Jessica Hutchings