Monsanto‘s GMO crop technology is arguably one of the most influential innovations of the past century; while it remains incredibly controversial among members of the public, the science has led to unprecedented advancements throughout the realm of biotechnology, and has held a key role in the process of creating a food secure world. This year marks the 20th anniversary of GMO crop technology, and I sat down with Dr. Robert Fraley, Monsanto’s Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer, during the 2016 Cattle Industry Convention to talk about the innovations behind the brand, as well as what they hold for the future.
“It’s been an absolutely, incredibly exciting 20 years, and I’m so proud of the fact that Monsanto made huge risky investments in this science,” said Dr. Fraley, “It’s exciting to work for a company that’s really one of the few companies around the world that is completely focused on agriculture. We’ve got 20,000 employees who wake up every morning thinking about how they help farmers produce better seeds and better crops.”
Food security and sustainability are two incredibly important topics of discussion throughout the entire agriculture sector, as producers face increasing pressures to feed the growing world population, which is projected to surpass 9 billion people by 2050, as well as pressures to meet the volatile demands of the most disconnected consumer base in history.
“We need to ensure that we bring the public along with us, that we communicate with them, so that the public understands the importance of innovation in agriculture and food production the same way they appreciate the innovations in healthcare or the innovations in computers and communication devices,” he said. “Agriculture and farming and food production need to advance in the same way if we’re going to achieve a food secure world.”
Dr. Fraley also discusses the future of Monsanto’s innovations, what new innovations the company is beginning to focusing on, and the potential he believes agriculture holds.
“I believe that we have such an exciting future because of some of the innovations that are becoming a part of agriculture.”
Listen to Jamie’s full interview with Dr. Fraley here:
Interview with Dr. Robert Fraley, Monsanto
View and download photos from the event here: Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show
