Genetic engineering to save the seas?
Every now and again emergent sciences will challenge preconceived ideas. Many environmentalists are rushing to support rapid development of offshore windfarms, but maybe without fully thinking about all the negative impacts on the marine environment. I am not against wind power, but I do believe it should be pursued responsibly and be subject to all relevant and appropriate assessments.
Now it seems that science brings GM and ocean conservation into a similar debate.
New Scientist Magazine reports this week that ...'a genetically modified soybean that produces oil containing omega-3 fatty acids - recommended for heart and brain health - could supplement fish as a source of these nutrients.
New Scientist goes onto say that Daniel Pauly, a fisheries specialist at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada, has welcomed the move. "Our stressed marine ecosystem would benefit from an alternative to fish oil as a source of omega-3s," he says.'
So at a time when the world's oceans are being subjected to massive over exploitation is the time right to accept GM modified soya that would mean a potential future for the world's fish, and in turn for many species of whale and dolphin? Your thoughts and views would be welcome on this complex subject.
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