June 8th 2009, Dorchester, Dorset: New study shows GM insect resistant (GM IR) maize has delivered important economic and environmental benefits but only a small part of the potential benefit is currently being realised.

“GM insect resistant maize adoption by EU farmers has contributed to reducing insecticide spraying, improved the quality of maize and significantly boosted farmers’ incomes,” said Graham Brookes, director of PG Economics, and author of the report. “The technology has made important contributions to increasing yields, reducing production risks and improving productivity. These benefits are, however, being denied to farmers and citizens alike in several maize-growing EU Member States, with the biggest losers being the very countries which have effectively banned the use of the technology; Italy, France, Germany and Austria”

Download the full report.