|
|
|
Smart GM plants win CSIRO's top award
12 Dec 2003
A CSIRO Chairman's Medal for 2003 has gone to two scientists for their research that led to new cotton varieties with increased yield and reduced pesticide use. Dr Gregory Constable and Dr Danny Llewellyn from CSIRO Plant Industry developed genetically modified insect and herbicide resistant varieties for the Australian cotton industry. They introduced Monsanto gene constructs into CSIRO cotton varieties which are marketed by Cotton Seed Distributors.
Since its 1996 introduction, INGARD cotton has reduced insecticide use by 50 per cent where it is grown. A new two-gene variety, Bollgard II, planted this season is expected to reduce chemical use by a further 30 per cent.
CSIRO chairman Catherine Livingstone said the development has helped make Australia's cotton industry more sustainable. Cotton growers now have varieties that offer substantial benefits to the environment and local communities as a result of needing less pesticide, while at the same time increasing yields, she said.
CSIRO Media Release, 11/12/03.
|
|
