Farmer Views on the Use of Genetic Engineering in Agriculture

The results of the survey reported here continue the ongoing surveys of farmer opinion that
have been a longstanding feature of research conducted by the AERU. The current topic is of
considerable importance to the current debate about genetic engineering. Promoters of genetic
engineering point out the advantages to New Zealand in adopting this technology and
detractors argue against its use pointing out there are many disadvantages. What is often not
considered in this debate is the viewpoint of farmers who may or may not adopt the products
of genetic engineering (GMOs). It is vital that farmer viewpoints are considered since their
reaction to the new technology will drive what will actually happen on the ground. This report
presents responses to a carefully prepared questionnaire and gives both an overview of
farmers’ responses as a whole and then analyses these responses in terms of intention to use
either GMOs, organic methods or conventional methods of production. The results will be of
interest to farmers, policy makers and those concerned about the use, or lack of use, of
GMOs.