In the heart of South Africa’s agricultural landscape, a quiet revolution is underway, one that’s as much about responsibility as it is about innovation. De Bruyn Myburgh, Lead Agronomist for Pannar Seed®, is at the forefront of this shift, advocating for a new era of stewardship in agriculture. This isn’t just about farming for today, but about ensuring that the decisions made in the fields today will shape a sustainable future for generations to come.
Agriculture, by its very nature, is a shared resource industry. Farmers are, and always have been, the original stewards of the land. They understand that their actions today will determine the course of their children’s story, and those after. This sense of responsibility is now more critical than ever, as modern agriculture embraces advancements in research, development, and technology.
One of the most significant developments in this arena is biotechnology. Biotech traits, which are specific characteristics introduced to plants, animals, or microorganisms to boost productivity, protect against pests, or enhance nutritional value, have revolutionized farming. They’ve decreased reliance on harmful insecticides, allowed for the use of reduced-risk herbicides, and increased farm productivity. However, these benefits come with a responsibility.
The stewardship of biotechnology traits is a shared responsibility between seed companies and farmers. It’s a journey that begins in the research and development phase, continues through rigorous regulatory processes, and extends into the commercial life of the product. At Pannar Seed and their parent company, Corteva Agriscience, this journey is taken seriously.
The research and development phase is where innovation meets responsibility. Scientists work tirelessly to develop products that are not only effective but also sustainable. Once developed, these products undergo thorough testing and regulatory scrutiny to ensure their safety and efficacy. This is where the stewardship program comes into play, ensuring that the highest standards of safety and transparency are maintained.
Once the product has passed the regulatory process, it enters the commercial market. This is where farmers play a crucial role. They are the ones who manage the “winning recipe” – enhanced seed products – on the ground. Through farmer-focused programs and information resources, seed companies like Pannar Seed guide farmers on how to use these technologies sustainably.
The responsibility of farmers is outlined in the Technology Use Agreements (TUA) signed prior to the use of biotechnology seeds. These agreements contain the conditions for planting biotech seeds, including planting suitable refuge areas for insect-resistant hybrids and adhering to herbicide dosage and application timing for herbicide-tolerant hybrids. The TUA and user guidelines also include important information on the co-existence of biotech and conventional farming operations, as well as the requirements for the movement of biotechnology seeds.
Stewardship in the context of biotechnology is an essential obligation that can only be fulfilled through collaboration. Seed companies and farmers must work together to protect the technology in the interest of food security and a profitable, sustainable agricultural sector. It’s thanks to the willingness of the vast majority of farmers to comply with all the requirements that we can continue to use the technology we have. Their cooperation lays the foundation for future technologies and products and is invaluable.
