“The Terror”

A few weeks ago a colleague and reader of tech4agri indicated his satisfaction with the most recent blog posts. Appreciative of his comment I asked if he would like to know more about any topic in particular. He inquired ‘Do you know about Agro terrorism?’

Agroterrorism refers to a malicious attempt at destroying any agricultural environment or food system of a population through dangerous viruses and diseases. The likely hood of such an occurrence is quite real given today’s world however at the first mention of the phrase, its official definition did not come to mind.

First thoughts came along the lines of out of control agricultural conglomerates; huge companies that are so powerful in the supply of agricultural inputs and services that they completely control relevant markets making it impossible for other businesses to survive. In addition with such control those companies are not guaranteed to provide quality product as they serve masses rather than individual consumers. Furthermore consumers become price takers as there is no other supplier to buy from.

The Organic view an online educational resources shares an article on Neonicotinoids detailing this exact situation.

There has been a huge debate over the impact of Neonicotinoids, which are a class of systemic pesticides with a common mode of action that affects the central nervous system of insects, causing paralysis and death. Neonicotinoids are often applied as seed treatments. This basically means that the seeds are coated before planting occurs. Neonicotinoids also generate billions of dollars for the agro-chemical companies that manufacture these chemicals and are available not only for agricultural applications but also can be found in a myriad of garden products available all over the world.

Thankfully this situation ended favorably as the pesticide was in fact banned for use in the EU, effectively causing several conglomerates to lose control and cease the application of this pesticide which is harmful to bees. Not only do large businesses practice these tactics but so could any in authority as this article exemplifies.

From NaturalNews.com, this article highlights “A new law proposed by the European Commission would make it illegal to “grow, reproduce or trade” any vegetable seeds that have not been “tested, approved and accepted” by a new EU bureaucracy named the “EU Plant Variety Agency.” It’s called the Plant Reproductive Material Law, and it attempts to put the government in charge of virtually all plants and seeds. Home gardeners who grow their own plants from non-regulated seeds would be considered criminals under this law.”

There is little an individual can do with respect to this form of agroterrorism however one can educate themselves. Seek as much information on any particular issue that may affect you and others in your environment. Articles such as those highlighted above are excellent sources. However consider many different sources to have an all round view of the given situation as the similar situation can and has occurred in the ACP countries.