Does ‘flawed science’ threaten our food supply?
Organisers say the idea that new technology will feed the world is mistaken. Its based on a misunderstanding of science and reveals an alarming ignorance on the part of politicians responsible for our food supply.
If we truly want to feed ourselves and the nine-billion people who will live on the planet by 2050 without destroying everything else, we need a new kind of science, says Colin Tudge, co-organiser of the rival conference. We need a science rooted in the principles of biology particularly ecology.
Talk of conquering nature is dangerous rhetoric. We need to understand nature and work with it. This requires a different conception of how nature really works. This is the lesson that has emerged from science itself. What passes as ultra-modern, high-tech GM crops and bigger factory farms belongs to a more primitive age.
Day 1 of the conference, dubbed Real Science for Real Farming, convened by Colin Tudge and Chaired by Patrick Holden, concentrates on what this new agricultural science might look like.
Graham Harvey, co-organiser, says biological farming agriculture that mimicks natural systems is our best guarantee of sound nutrition and a secure food supply, and day 2 – Real Farming The Nations Primary Health Service, looks at the practical applications of biological agriculture as opposed to modern industrial farming practices.
If we are truly to feed ourselves without wrecking everything else we need a new approach to nature and a far more subtle kind of science.
The conference takes place on Tuesday 4th & Wednesday 5th January.
For more information visit: www.oxfordrealfarmingconference.org