``Seeds'' are being developed in open source to combat corporate monopoly
Speaking of 'open source' products that anyone can engage in development generally refers to software, but refers to the development of
“Open Source” Seeds Loosen Big Ag's Grip on Farmers – World Sensorium / Conservancy
https://worldsensorium.com/open-source-seeds-loosen-big-ags-grip-on-farmers/
Just as software development is dominated by a few global companies such as Microsoft and Apple, international seed development and trading is also dominated by a few large companies such as Bayer, Corteva, and China Chemical Group. Mr. Haas speaks. A 2012 survey by Oxfam, a support group aiming to eradicate poverty, found that four companies control more than 60% of the world's grain trade.
Patented and protected seeds cannot be saved, replanted or shared by farmers and gardeners. Also, because these seeds do not have exemptions for research, plant breeders at universities and small seed companies cannot develop new crop varieties using patent-protected seeds.
In response to this current situation, attempts are being made to develop ``new seeds'' without proprietary rights with open source and to restore diversity to agriculture. In 2012, Jack Cloppenberg, professor emeritus at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and six like-minded agricultural experts launched the idea of ' open source seeds' as a way to combat the corporate seed monopoly.・Co-founded the initiative (OSSI) .
OSSI develops and provides its own seeds to eliminate such restrictions, and has already contracted with about 50 seedling companies and has provided nearly 500 seeds. According to Mr. Cloppenberg, the purpose of OSSI is 'free distribution and exchange of genetic resources, plant breeding and cultivar development', and it is also working on the development of innovative plant varieties that are resistant to global warming and diseases. is.
Seed producers who have signed a contract with OSSI will register the seeds they have developed with OSSI, and anyone who purchases seeds registered with OSSI can use them as they like. Rye, wheat, tomatoes, potatoes, etc. have already been developed at OSSI, and cannabis breeders are also interested in OSSI's strategy.
“Some global companies dominate the global seed trade, growing cash crops like corn and soybeans for money,” Cloppenberg said. We don't care about farmers, we need new plant varieties that can adapt to change.'
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