Time to restart genetic modification debate?
An expert on genetic modification says though young people can see the possibilities with the technology, some people are still living in a time warp in regards to it.
The government's chief science advisor warns that some scientists in New Zealand use their scientific standing to make claims well beyond available evidence and their own expertise.
Sir Peter Gluckman based his comments, to the Joint Research Centre of the European Commission in Brussels, on his eight years of experience as chief science advisor to the NZ government; he also holds international positions. His keynote address paper addressed the role of science in society and, in particular, its role in policy making.
Gluckman says some scientists display excessive pride and self-confidence – even arrogance -- in their comments on government policy.
“Scientists need to appreciate that politicians make their decisions based on values as well as scientific evidence. [Scientists’] arrogance can become the biggest enemy [hindering] science in effectively engaging with policy; the policy decisions inevitably involve dimensions beyond science.”
He says scientists need to appreciate that political ideology and financial, diplomatic and even electoral constraints must also be heeded by politicians.
Gluckman says he has avoided using the somewhat arrogant term ‘evidence-based policy’, preferring the more appropriate ‘evidence-informed policy’.
The country’s 4200 commercial fruit and vegetable growers will vote from May 14 on a new HortNZ levy.
Meat processor Alliance Group is asking farmer shareholders to inject more capital in order to remain a 100% co-operative.
A vet is calling for all animals to be vaccinated against a new strain of leptospirosis (lepto) discovered on New Zealand dairy farms in recent years.
Dairy
Rural banker Rabobank is partnering with Food Rescue Kitchen on a new TV series which airs this weekend that aims to shine a light on the real and growing issues of food waste, food poverty and social isolation in New Zealand.
Telco infrastructure provider Chorus says that it believes all Kiwis – particularly those in the rural areas – need access to high-speed, reliable broadband.
OPINION: The new government has clearly signalled big cuts across the public service.
OPINION: Your canine crusader is not surprised by the recent news that New Zealand plant-based ‘fake meat’ business is in…