Debating the future of genetically modified plants - bridging knowledge dimensions. A technology foresight study

Rapid developments in, and the controversial nature of, biotechnology call for
communication, networks, partnerships, and collaboration in research, not just
among researchers but also between researchers and research “users” in industry, government, and elsewhere. Technological foresight appears to offer a coordinating method for developing and strengthening those linkages. To test this, a technological foresight study was performed on genetically modified (GM)
crop technology in the Danish context. The background to the study was the
conflict and intense debate in Denmark over applications of gene technology,
and especially over the deliberate release of GM crops. However, the current
debate characteristically involves sharply opposed fronts. In it, stakeholders and
experts on both side of the conflict advocate widely differing opinions. Without
a proper, generally intelligible dialogue, the broader public audience finds it
hard to comprehend this type of debate. The study pursues the notion that public dialogue can act as a driver of future applications in the technological domain, specifically GM crops. The study concluded with a stakeholder workshop that revealed three key issues that might provide helpful starting points for a more free-flowing and open-minded debate about the future of GM crops. The issues were those arising from the following statements: a broad perspective on risk is crucial; international regulation must make allowance for developing countries; a better configuration of the risk debate is needed. These issues are discussed in more detail in the report, along with the foresight method we used to reveal these issues.