Silicon Investor (SI) -- The First Internet Community

STOCKTALK

We've detected that you're using an ad content blocking browser plug-in or feature. Ads provide a critical source of revenue to the continued operation of Silicon Investor. We ask that you disable ad blocking while on Silicon Investor in the best interests of our community. If you are not using an ad blocker but are still receiving this message, make sure your browser's tracking protection is set to the 'standard' level.

Biotech / Medical : Monsanto Co. -- Ignore unavailable to you. Want to Upgrade?

To: Anthony Wong who wrote (2194)	6/20/1999 3:59:00 PM
From: Bindusagar Reddy	Read Replies (1) \| Respond to of 2539

Monarch's mortality isn't Biotech's fault From Businessweek this week 'Imperiled monarchs alter the biotech landscape'' (News: Analysis & Commentary, June 7) contains more holes than a moth-eaten sweater. No one disputes the sanctity of butterflies. Everyone agrees follow-up is essential on the Cornell University study that examined the impact of Bt corn pollen on butterfly caterpillars. But to suggest that one study represents a watershed in development of agricultural biotechnology ignores years of scientific studies and thousands of field tests conducted prior to introduction of crops such as Bt corn. The Cornell study is not the first to examine the impact of Bt corn pollen on butterflies. The Agriculture Dept. and the Environmental Protection Agency studied the risk extensively and concluded it was remarkably remote. In fact, conservation groups have noted that the primary threat to monarch butterflies is the loss of their crucial winter habitat in Southern California and central Mexico. Other threats come from pesticides, habitat degradation along butterfly migratory routes, and other human activities. More monarchs die in high-velocity collisions with car windshields than ever encounter corn pollen. Also, biotech companies did consider the impact of their work. The results of scientific studies and field tests are available for perusal. Biotech companies are not on the defensive. By responding to questions about applications of biotechnology, our companies are doing what they always have, educating people about a complex science that holds potential for improving medicine, agriculture, and the environment. Carl B. Feldbaum, President Biotechnology Industry Organization Washington