While you were distracted by BREXIT, Monsanto puppets in the U.S. Senate announced a 'compromise' to outlaw GMO labeling

[Neuling]

I just read an interesting article on open-source plant seed initiatives in Germany and the US. They promote seeds which may expressly not be patented, but freely used by anyone. Seeds from the harvest can be reused for the next generation, too, so no more dependence on Bayer/Monsanto and the few other suppliers left. In fact, the only obligation for the farmer is to print the open-source terms and conditions on bags etc. in order to spread the word and seeds. The concept was adopted from the world of software, obviously.

[evilcart]

Originally Posted by Neuling

I just read an interesting article on open-source plant seed initiatives in Germany and the US. They promote seeds which may expressly not be patented, but freely used by anyone. Seeds from the harvest can be reused for the next generation, too, so no more dependence on Bayer/Monsanto and the few other suppliers left. In fact, the only obligation for the farmer is to print the open-source terms and conditions on bags etc. in order to spread the word and seeds. The concept was adopted from the world of software, obviously.

it is a great idea.

the AU (african union) should work to fund this project as should south america, asia... throw some money at it to save vastly more down the road.

Farming these days seems to be about funneling monies to corporations and much of that money comes from struggling small farmers who have little choice.

[Neuling]

Originally Posted by evilcart

it is a great idea.

the AU (african union) should work to fund this project as should south america, asia... throw some money at it to save vastly more down the road.

Farming these days seems to be about funneling monies to corporations and much of that money comes from struggling small farmers who have little choice.

Yes, India for instance has long come to regret its so-called green revolution decades ago, which has caused dependence and the abandonment of many established varieties, not to mention the destruction of soil and water due to pesticides. We need to refocus on free, uncontrolled, regional varieties, which are often perfectly adopted to local climates.
In the article it says that Bayer/Monsanto alone already accounts for 60% of the global seed market. That is a very unhealthy development.