Latest news with #GMOs
India.com
6 days ago
- Health
- India.com
Discover How Shimla's Organic Farming Revolutionizes Health And Sustainability!
Shimla, since it serves as the capital of Himachal Pradesh, exists in the Himalayan foothills by combining picturesque landscapes with an exploration of sustainable agricultural methods. The rise of organic farming in the Shimla area has become a dominant agricultural trend because consumers became more health-conscious along with their environmental consciousness together with government-sponsored chemical-free farming programs. The research analyzes the organic farming expansion throughout this scenic territory by covering essential agricultural areas while featuring farmers' accounts with a focus on community effects. The Rise of Organic Farming in Shimla The process of organic farming requires the complete absence of synthetic fertilizers together with pesticides and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The farming system relies on natural fertilizer techniques which combine crop rotation with composting and green manure cultivation alongside ecological pest management approaches. Indian farmers have shown strong enthusiasm for organic farming since the implementation of Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) and Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER) government schemes. Shimla's environment benefits organic agriculture through its pleasant climate system and its diverse natural resources combined with quality soil. Multiple reasons drive local farmers to adopt organic farming approaches after leaving traditional farming behind. Customers now show heightened awareness around food health because they seek products lacking dangerous chemicals. The broad application of chemical pesticides along with fertilizers leads to soil degeneration alongside water source pollution. Organic farming helps preserve ecosystems. State and central government agencies give farmers organic agriculture incentives by providing subsidies and training programs and certification schemes. Organic produce receives better returns to farmers because the market demand continues to grow both domestically and internationally. Key Locations Promoting Organic Farming Near Shimla The regions which lie near Shimla are transforming into active areas for organic farming activities. Users can locate these sites through Google Maps because they offer convenient access. 1. Mashobra Mashobra Mashobra settles around 12 kilometers outside of Shimla while maintaining a reputation for its abundant apple orchards and vegetable farming areas. The farmers of this region chose organic agriculture which allows them to produce premium-quality apples together with potatoes and leafy greens. Buyavors in the region benefit from the climatic environment and extensive precipitation that creates ideal circumstances for organic agriculture. 2. Chail Chail The town of Chail stands approximately 45 kilometers southeast from Shimla and is distinguished by its pure natural environment and royal historical legacy. The clean air and unpolluted land in Chail enables farmers to produce organic vegetables together with herbs and fruits. Small-scale farmers obtain effective marketing channels through local cooperative organizations. 3. Kufri Kufri The city of Kufri holds the status as India's 'Potato Capital' and operates as a prime location for organic farming activities near Shimla. The area situated at 16 kilometers distance specializes in top-quality organic potato farming while raising additional seasonal vegetables. Visitors at Kufri can stay in multiple farm properties that give them the opportunity to understand organic farming. 4. Naldehra Naldehra Farmer communities who operate in Naldehra cultivate organic wheat barley and pulses approximately 20 kilometers west of Shimla district. The traditional farming approaches within this area match the essential criteria of contemporary organic agriculture. Success Stories of Organic Farmers Ramesh Thakur from Mashobra started practicing organic farming five years ago at his farm which stands as an inspirational model in the region. He showed early doubt before the influence of escalating production expenses combined with deteriorating soil conditions from traditional chemical methods pushed him toward organic methods. Through aid from local nonprofit organizations together with subsidies under PKVY he successfully made his land an economically successful organic farming operation. The transition to organic production of apples now leads to better market returns thus substantially increasing his financial well-being. Women who lead self-help groups in Chail have taken up organic farming because it enables them to gain economic power. A collaboration of these groups uses pooled expertise to cultivate spices along with medicinal plants and exotic vegetables which they market both online and in local markets. Impact on Local Communities Organic farming has introduced various advantages to Shimla's rural areas because of its adoption. The increased financial gains from organic farming allow farmers to boost their economic situation which enables them to create investment opportunities for education along with healthcare and infrastructural development. The regeneration of degraded soils occurs through organic farming methods which creates sustainable outcomes for the future. Farm stays along with agritourism attract tourists who want to discover organic farming thus creating more financial gain for farmers. A communal empowerment happens when farmers work together to achieve common goals through their shared purpose. Challenges Faced by Organic Farmers Organic farmers in Shimla operate with various hurdles which affect their activities. Organic farming starts with substantial time and financial costs in order to purchase natural inputs while seeking certification approvals. Farmers who do not use chemical pesticides need to spend significant labor to control pests organically. Excellent market opportunities exist yet small-sized farmers struggle to reach potential buyers because they lack adequate distribution systems and marketing infrastructure. Multiple stakeholders including government bodies NGOs alongside private enterprises unite to offer farming assistance while giving financial support and market connection services to farmers. Takeaway People throughout Shimla continue to embrace organic farming as part of a national shift toward promoting sustainability combined with environmentally conscious consumption. Farming with organic methods in this region helps farmers protect natural resources while establishing healthy lifestyles together with stronger economic conditions. The recognition of chemical-free foods among people creates a positive outlook for the growth of organic farming around Shimla. All visitors who come to Mashobra apple orchards and Chail's landscapes as well as those staying at Kufri farms can see the rebirth of this ancient farming method which addresses current needs.
Scoop
02-06-2025
- Politics
- Scoop
Why Is The New Zealand Media Not Questioning The Implications Of The Gene Technology Bill?
Press Release – Lisa Er Despite the profound ethical, environmental, and societal implications, there has been a noticeable lack of critical scrutiny from the mainstream media, says Lisa Er. As the Gene Technology Bill advances through Parliament, New Zealand faces a pivotal moment in science, agriculture, and public health. The proposed legislation would significantly relax restrictions on gene technology, enabling broader research, development, and use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in New Zealand for the first time in nearly 30 years Yet, despite the profound ethical, environmental, and societal implications, there has been a noticeable lack of critical scrutiny from the mainstream media. 'It is plausible that political and economic factors are influencing the nature and depth of media coverage regarding the Gene Technology Bill,' says Lisa Er, author of a petition to 'halt the progress of the Gene Technology Bill and instead set up a Commission of Inquiry into the health and safety of people and the environment on behalf of citizens, to allow time for wider community and stakeholder consultation.' Key Concerns: Environmental Risks: The Bill paves the way for the release of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) into New Zealand's unique ecosystems, risking irreversible impacts on native species, biodiversity, crops, and the country's global clean, green brand. Lack of Public Consultation: The Government has failed to meaningfully consult with Māori, scientists, and the wider public, ignoring Treaty of Waitangi obligations and indigenous rights, community concerns about food safety, cultural values, and environmental protection. Threat to Export Markets: New Zealand's primary export markets, especially in Europe and Asia, have strict GM-free requirements. The Bill endangers market access and could jeopardize billions in export earnings. Undermining Precaution: The Bill abandons the precautionary principle that has underpinned New Zealand's cautious approach to gene technology, exposing the country to unknown long-term risks. Ignoring International Best Practice: Leading nations are strengthening, not weakening, their oversight of gene technologies in response to new scientific evidence and public concern. Insufficient Public Debate: The bill has generated over 1,500 public submissions, reflecting deep divisions and strong opinions across the country. The removal of labelling GE is of considerable public concern. Why has the minimal media coverage largely focused on official statements and the potential benefits, with little attention paid to the risks, opposition viewpoints, or the broader societal debate that is unfolding in submissions and community discussions? Risk Oversight and Regulatory Gaps: the bill will open the door to unintended consequences, including ecosystem disruption, cross-contamination of crops, and unclear long-term health effects Transparency and Accountability: Some have questioned whether the bill is being rushed or if consultation has been adequate, particularly given the timing of the public submission period over the summer holidays Media outlets have an essential role in holding lawmakers accountable and ensuring transparency in the legislative process, and these risks deserve deeper journalistic investigation and public explanation. A Call to Action for the Media: We urge New Zealand's journalists and editors to fulfil their democratic duty by: – Investigating the full range of concerns about the Gene Technology Bill, including those raised in public submissions. – Highlighting the ethical, cultural, and environmental questions that remain unresolved. – Providing balanced, evidence-based coverage that empowers New Zealanders to make informed decisions about the future of gene technology in their country. 'The Gene Technology Bill represents a generational shift in New Zealand's approach to biotechnology', says Er. 'The public deserves robust, critical journalism that examines not only the promises but also the very real perils of this legislation.' Lisa Er, founder of Lisa's Hummus Issued in the public interest to encourage transparent, balanced, and investigative reporting on a matter of national importance Petition with over 4,000 signatures Petition request: That the House of Representatives halt the progress of the Gene Technology Bill and instead set up a Commission of Inquiry into the health and safety of people and the environment on behalf of citizens, to allow time for wider community and stakeholder consultation. Petition reason: I consider the Gene Technology Bill has failed to follow sound and fair processes by not consulting enough with the public and other stakeholders. I believe there is inadequate consideration of Te Tiriti obligations, and insufficient requirements to protect people and the environment from the risks of GE contamination. A range of gene editing techniques would be excluded from regulation. This would mean GE products would enter the environment and food supply untested, unregistered and unlabeled.
Scoop
02-06-2025
- Politics
- Scoop
Why Is The New Zealand Media Not Questioning The Implications Of The Gene Technology Bill?
Press Release – Lisa Er Despite the profound ethical, environmental, and societal implications, there has been a noticeable lack of critical scrutiny from the mainstream media, says Lisa Er. As the Gene Technology Bill advances through Parliament, New Zealand faces a pivotal moment in science, agriculture, and public health. The proposed legislation would significantly relax restrictions on gene technology, enabling broader research, development, and use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in New Zealand for the first time in nearly 30 years Yet, despite the profound ethical, environmental, and societal implications, there has been a noticeable lack of critical scrutiny from the mainstream media. 'It is plausible that political and economic factors are influencing the nature and depth of media coverage regarding the Gene Technology Bill,' says Lisa Er, author of a petition to 'halt the progress of the Gene Technology Bill and instead set up a Commission of Inquiry into the health and safety of people and the environment on behalf of citizens, to allow time for wider community and stakeholder consultation.' Key Concerns: Environmental Risks: The Bill paves the way for the release of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) into New Zealand's unique ecosystems, risking irreversible impacts on native species, biodiversity, crops, and the country's global clean, green brand. Lack of Public Consultation: The Government has failed to meaningfully consult with Māori, scientists, and the wider public, ignoring Treaty of Waitangi obligations and indigenous rights, community concerns about food safety, cultural values, and environmental protection. Threat to Export Markets: New Zealand's primary export markets, especially in Europe and Asia, have strict GM-free requirements. The Bill endangers market access and could jeopardize billions in export earnings. Undermining Precaution: The Bill abandons the precautionary principle that has underpinned New Zealand's cautious approach to gene technology, exposing the country to unknown long-term risks. Ignoring International Best Practice: Leading nations are strengthening, not weakening, their oversight of gene technologies in response to new scientific evidence and public concern. Insufficient Public Debate: The bill has generated over 1,500 public submissions, reflecting deep divisions and strong opinions across the country. The removal of labelling GE is of considerable public concern. Why has the minimal media coverage largely focused on official statements and the potential benefits, with little attention paid to the risks, opposition viewpoints, or the broader societal debate that is unfolding in submissions and community discussions? Risk Oversight and Regulatory Gaps: the bill will open the door to unintended consequences, including ecosystem disruption, cross-contamination of crops, and unclear long-term health effects Transparency and Accountability: Some have questioned whether the bill is being rushed or if consultation has been adequate, particularly given the timing of the public submission period over the summer holidays Media outlets have an essential role in holding lawmakers accountable and ensuring transparency in the legislative process, and these risks deserve deeper journalistic investigation and public explanation. A Call to Action for the Media: We urge New Zealand's journalists and editors to fulfil their democratic duty by: – Investigating the full range of concerns about the Gene Technology Bill, including those raised in public submissions. – Highlighting the ethical, cultural, and environmental questions that remain unresolved. – Providing balanced, evidence-based coverage that empowers New Zealanders to make informed decisions about the future of gene technology in their country. 'The Gene Technology Bill represents a generational shift in New Zealand's approach to biotechnology', says Er. 'The public deserves robust, critical journalism that examines not only the promises but also the very real perils of this legislation.' Lisa Er, founder of Lisa's Hummus Issued in the public interest to encourage transparent, balanced, and investigative reporting on a matter of national importance Petition with over 4,000 signatures Petition request: That the House of Representatives halt the progress of the Gene Technology Bill and instead set up a Commission of Inquiry into the health and safety of people and the environment on behalf of citizens, to allow time for wider community and stakeholder consultation. Petition reason: I consider the Gene Technology Bill has failed to follow sound and fair processes by not consulting enough with the public and other stakeholders. I believe there is inadequate consideration of Te Tiriti obligations, and insufficient requirements to protect people and the environment from the risks of GE contamination. A range of gene editing techniques would be excluded from regulation. This would mean GE products would enter the environment and food supply untested, unregistered and unlabeled.
DW
22-05-2025
- Health
- DW
Controversy over genetically modified food in Nigeria – DW – 05/22/2025
05/22/2025 May 22, 2025 Genetically modified organisms, or GMOS, are under intense scrutiny in Nigeria. Some of the country's scientists are concerned that genetically modified food could cause health and fertility issues while others argue that it can boost food security. Eddy Micah Jr. talks to Dr. Rufus Ebegba, who introduced GMOs in Nigeria, and DW correspondent Ben Shemang in Abuja.
Tom's Guide
06-05-2025
- Business
- Tom's Guide
GOTS certification in mattresses is more important than you think — here's why
If you've been shopping for the best organic mattresses, you might have noticed a logo of a white T-shirt in a green circle — but what does it mean, and how is it related to mattresses? That symbol represents the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), long considered the gold standard in organic textile certification. There are two levels: Organic (at least 95% certified organic natural fibers) and Made With Organic (at least 70% certified organic fibers). GOTS ensures the use of organic materials that are free from harmful chemicals. This mattress certification encompasses the entire process, from the farming and harvesting of raw fibers to the final manufacturing stages. Accredited, independent third-party certification bodies conduct on-site audits. You may like But how does a mattress earn GOTS certification — and how can shoppers be confident that a brand's claims are legitimate? After testing the best mattresses of the year, we've learned how to spot these certifications. But for answers to those questions and more, we've also spoken with representatives from GOTS North America and brands that sell GOTS-certified mattresses. The main benefits of GOTS certification: It offers a transparent chain of custody and guarantees the materials in your mattress are organic and toxin-free It assures you that the laborers involved in harvesting materials have been paid a fair wage and work in humane conditions It's proof that the manufacturing process for making those materials is safe for the environment How does GOTS certification work? "The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) includes a whole set of requirements for manufacturing what would eventually become a finished textile product, but all of the supply chain goes through the same audit," explains Ryan Sitler, GOTS Representative in North America. What is GOTS certification? The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is a set of environmental and labor requirements that govern the manufacture of a textile product. Development for this standard began in 2002, and since 2008 it's been managed by a German non-profit called Global Standard. It starts with the origin of the materials. For a product to receive GOTS certification, the fibers must be grown without pesticides, herbicides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). A clear chain of custody must be maintained, with detailed, traceable records from the harvesting of raw materials to the final product. (Image credit: Getty Images) Strict processing standards are enforced to protect the health and safety of factory workers, consumers and the environment. GOTS prohibits the use of "forever chemicals" (PFAS), heavy metals, toxic dyes and other substances known to pose risks to human health or the environment. Social responsibility is another pillar of GOTS. "There are a lot of worker welfare requirements — [fair] pay, worker training, worker health and safety, protection from harassment and discrimination. Those are very important components written into the Standard," says Sitler. OEKO-TEX Standard 100 is a similar certification that tests for over 1,000 harmful substances and supports sustainable, regenerative farming. How does a mattress become GOTS-certified? For a mattress manufacturer seeking GOTS certification, the process usually starts by submitting an application detailing the production methods and the finished products to be considered. From there, the manufacturer must establish a quality management system, implement supplier approval programs, and gather the necessary documents to show GOTS compliance. (Image credit: Michele Ross) An accredited third-party Certification Body will work closely with the manufacturer to ensure a clear understanding of the standard and to review the records needed for certification. Once GOTS certification is granted, there will be a yearly audit that includes interviewing workers, reviewing manufacturing records and inspecting the use of GOTS claims and labels on the company's website, packaging, and marketing materials. Does GOTS certification really matter? Sleep brands and consumers view GOTS as a gold standard in organic textile certification because it considers the whole supply chain. There's just as much of an emphasis on worker safety and environmental impact as there is on the finished product. "Our written requirements include both worker protection and environmental protection requirements, as well as improving the livelihood of workers, and even going to the extent of improving environmental conditions in and around where the workers live," says Sitler. (Image credit: Getty Images) Stringent chemical requirements are another reason why GOTS certification is held in high regard by those who prioritize organic goods for their sleep, be it mattresses, pillows, sheets or pajamas. GOTS revises its criteria every three years to incorporate new research and emerging best practices. Leaders in the organic mattress industry take GOTS compliance seriously, and consider it both a responsibility and a point of pride. "GOTS certification holds us accountable to the highest level of environmental and social responsibility, not just for the materials themselves, but for how they're processed and handled," says Mark Abrials, Chief Marketing & Sustainability Officer at Avocado Green. Businesses that are GOTS-certified are very proud of what they're doing. Part of that is their willingness to help educate and share their story. Ryan Sitler Karl Shevick, Founder and CEO of Earthfoam, says GOTS aligns with his company's mission of sustainability and transparency. "It reinforces our commitment to high environmental and ethical standards, and shows our customers that we take this commitment seriously," he adds. "GOTS certification gave us a real framework that aligned with our values. It's not just about being organic, it's about being responsible at every level," says Jack Dell'Accio, CEO of Essentia Mattress. Which mattresses are GOTS certified? The best way to know if a mattress is legitimately certified is to search for it in the GOTS Certified Suppliers Database. You can search by license number (if known), product category, or company name. Sitler says shoppers should look for four components: the T-shirt logo with "Global Organic Textile Standard" around the outside, the label, the grade, and the license number. If a brand website only has the GOTS logo and no other information, that's often not a good sign. Below are some of the GOTS certified mattresses we've tested and recommend. Are GOTS certified mattresses more expensive? Many of the best mattresses we've tested this year incorporate GOTS-certified materials. For a queen-size GOTS-certified mattress, you'll be paying around $2,400 on average. Compare that to the average price of the best mattresses we've tried that are non-GOTS certified, which is around $1,600 for a queen. GOTS-certified mattresses such as Avocado Green, PlushBeds Botanical Bliss, and Essentia Stratami all exceed $1,600, even when they're on sale. Popular non-GOTS certified mattresses-in-a-box from brands like Purple, Nectar, and WinkBed will run between $1,300 and $1,500 on sale, with budget models from DreamCloud and Siena available for even less. When you buy a GOTS-certified organic mattress, you're not only paying for the quality of the end product — you're also paying for what goes into creating it. When you buy a GOTS-certified organic mattress, you're not only paying for the quality of the end product — you're also paying for what goes into creating it. Organic materials, such as cotton and wool, tend to cost more to grow and harvest. Processing methods that meet ecological and toxicological standards for GOTS are often more expensive than conventional manufacturing. Operating a transparent supply chain and paying fair wages to workers add to production costs, as well. (Image credit: Future) "At Avocado, our level of craftsmanship, comfort, and durability comes at a cost, but it reflects the values we put into every mattress we make. For people who want something they can truly feel good about, and sleep better on, we believe it's 100% worth it," says Abrials, a Co-Founder of Avocado Green. Others, like Shevick of Earthfoam, have a different philosophy. Earthfoam's GOTS-certified mattress sells for $1,299, which is less than even the average cost of non-GOTS certified mattresses. "Keeping prices accessible is core to our business and comes down to controlling our supply chain," says Shevick. "Because we own our production facilities, we eliminate middlemen and reduce overhead costs. This lets us maintain exceptional quality without inflating prices." It remains to be seen what impact the impending tariffs on imports in the US could have on the price of organic mattresses in general, as a lot of these brands source their materials from farms and facilities overseas. (Image credit: Earthfoam) GOTS certification matters when shopping for mattresses — or any textile product — because it offers full transparency on where and how materials are sourced while incorporating practices that help preserve the environment and benefit workers' livelihoods. For people who want a toxin-free mattress, buying GOTS-certified is reassuring. The standard maintains a strict set of criteria to ensure that the fibers are purely organic, without additives or chemicals that pose a threat to human health. Plus, these criteria are revised every three years. Because even this year's best memory foam mattresses that we've tested include man-made chemicals which can result in off-gassing. You'll often have to pay more for a GOTS-certified mattress as the price reflects the costs of implementing practices and machinery compliant with the standard, which are usually more expensive than traditional manufacturing and sourcing methods. That said, the investment in GOTS-certified organic is worth it if you want to do your part to help the global community and the environment. It's also worth noting that these natural materials are often very breathable and moisture wicking, and many of this year's best cooling mattresses that we've tested incorporate wool and cotton for their cooling properties. So, if you do sleep hot or experience night sweats or hot flashes, considering a GOTS-certified mattress is a good idea. "Businesses that are GOTS-certified are very proud of what they're doing. Part of that is their willingness to help educate and share their story. GOTS-certified businesses are excellent companies that are proud to share and communicate with their customers," says Sitler. To learn more about the Global Organic Textile Standard, visit GOTS: Behind the Seams .
