Public Policy Issues
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| Dr. Dermot J. Hayes |
Forecasters see the next decade as one of tremendous opportunity and discovery in the fields of biotechnology and information sciences. One of the most exciting developments has been the rapid emergence of agricultural biotechnology, built on advances in life sciences and information sciences. Iowa State University and the State of Iowa have embraced this vision and have embarked on a program to create a world-class plant science Institute.
It is now clear that issues of public acceptance and consumer attitudes are critical to the success of agricultural biotechnology, and these in turn depend on issues such as the economic, ethical and political implications of the scientific output. Much of this applied work is being done by independent researchers across the nation and throughout the world, but this research needs to be integrated and coordinated with the science.
Objective of the Task Force
The objective of this task force is to initiate, coordinate and communicate activities in the areas of economics, sociology, ethics and business as they relate to agricultural biotechnology. Examples of activities include:
- Measuring the risks, costs and benefits associated with new biotechnological products.
- Assessing consumer attitudes towards biotechnological products and an understanding of factors that shape these attitudes
- Analyzing ethical aspects associated with the development or lack of development of products and processes.
- Measuring market price impacts and on the competitive position of sectors and countries
- Working with government regulatory agencies to analyze information and promote informed decision-making.
- Adopting existing business models and tools to successfully commercialize products and process emerging from Institute science.
Sites with Current Information and Research
Studies & Documents
Experimental Evidence on Consumer Demand for Biotech Corn
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Benefits and Costs Associated with Bt Corn
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What is the optimal level of plant variety protection?
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ASPB urges opposition to mandatory labeling of genetically modified foods in Oregon
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How Information Impacts Consumer Acceptance
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Risk Considerations Relating to Pharmaceutical Corn
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