Sustainable Food Production and CRISPR Crops

Two scientists from Plant & Food Research present their work at the leading edge of their fields.

Dr Craig Anderson (Cropping Systems and Environment, Lincoln) will illustrate the 'sustainability' of current and future food production through the lens of 'energy-return-on-investment' (EROI).

He believes that EROI can more rationally frame the impact technological transformations could have and make some assumptions about the trajectory of our future with respect to our environment.

Dr Revel Drummond (Plant Development Group, Auckland) will explain what CRISPR is, and is not, and how it could help protect NZ crops.

As CRISPR modifies a plant’s DNA, it is currently caught by the blanket ban on genetic modification in this country. Revel discusses whether this is appropriate, and whether NZ risks missing out on this technological revolution.

Admission by gold coin donation.