GMOs: Necessary in a Hot and Crowded World?

Robert Fraley, Chief Technology Officer, Monsanto 
Andrew Kimbrell, Founder and Executive Director, Center for Food Safety 
Nathanael Johnson, Food Writer, Grist; Author, All Natural: A Skeptic's Quest to Discover If the Natural Approach to Diet, Childbirth, Healing, and the Environment Really Keeps Us Healthier and Happier
Jessica Lundberg, Seed Nursery Manager, Lundberg Family Farms

With global population climbing toward 10 billion, food security is a growing concern. Extreme droughts and floods have slammed agricultural exports from the United States, Australia and Russia in recent years. Future severe weather is expected to put upward pressure on crop prices. That prospect raises thorny questions. Is there a role for seeds that are genetically modified to be drought resistant? Can 10 billion people be fed without GMO crops? Can organics feed a growing and hungry world? Consumer support of full labeling of GMO products is getting the attention of food producers and retailers. Whole Foods recently said all GMO foods on its shelves must be labeled by 2018. General Mills announced that Cheerios would not include GMOs. Labeling laws are also being put before voters around the country. Join us for a discussion about the prospect and perils of tinkering with the genetics of our food supply as we brace for more climate disruption.

Climate One Connect: Audience members are invited to engage in breakout group conversations led by speakers for 20 minutes following the program. We hope you’ll take part in this unique opportunity to delve deeper into feeding a hot and crowded planet. This Climate One Connect will also include the opportunity to speak with Brent Tarnow, Senior Stakeholder Engagement Manager for Future 500, a group that seeks common ground between companies and their adversaries.

June 11, 2014