GMO-Compass Online Discourse on Co-existence of GMOs
11 September to 8 October 2006

Access the forum and Online Registration

What will be the fate of genetically modified crops in Europe?

What will it take to make the idea of co-existence, between genetically modified plants (GMOs) and conventional crops, a reality?

GMO-Compass, the online guide to the world of genetically modified plants and food, is hosting an online discourse to get to the heart of these critical questions. The online discourse, hosted at www.gmo-compass.org, will open its forum to the public on 11 September 2006, and will remain open until 8 October 2006. The GMO-Compass editorial board, a team of independent science journalists, is launching this discourse to foster informed debate on GMOs, especially on co-existence. Results of the discourse will be summarised and published.

As a catalyst for the discussion, the editorial board offers a series of potential co-existence scenarios, accompanied by commentary from experts in the field. These scenarios will take us into the year 2016, describing three developments in agriculture:

• European-wide ban on GM-food after serious accidents
• Organic agriculture and GMO carried on successfully side-by-side
• GM usual in every kind of foodstuff

These future scenarios and expert views will serve as a foundation for responses from the public.

Registration began in August and will remain open until the end of the online discourse on 8 October 2006. Those wishing to take an active role in the online discourse can register for participation by filling out a simple form. By entering your name, your e-mail address and, if desired, your institution, you gain a voice in a public debate including scientific experts and the interested public. E-mail addresses will remain confidential.

Users simply wishing to read along may view the forum without having to register.