Journal of Biotechnology & Biomaterials
Open Access

Abstract

Brazil is the second largest producer of biotech crops in the world. A strict regulatory environment has been playing a crucial role in the rapid development and commercialization of biotech products in Brazil. The 2005 Biosafety Law defined security mechanisms for genetic modified organisms (GMO) monitoring, establishing supervision procedures over the development, farming, production, research and commercialization of transgenic seeds. As a consequence of a stablished regulatory framework on biosafety, over 300 biotech companies have been working in Brazil. These companies are focusing on a vast array of biotech areas such as human and animal health, bioenergy and agriculture. Thanks to sustainable practices, to the use of technology and to committed farmers, Brazil produces a significant share of food, fibers and renewable energies consumed all over the world. As a result from GMO adoption, Brazil has increased agriculture production by 350% while its land use increased only by 50%, causing a clear impact on sustainability and biodiversity preservation. Agribusiness carries on as a growing industry. According to data released by the National Supply Company, Brazilian grain crop may reach a record production of up to 215 million tons in 2017. To reach this productivity and competitiveness level, the application of scientific knowledge in agriculture is crucial. Thanks to the use and development of new inputs, to the mechanization of the work in the fields and to the adoption of high-performance seeds developed by classical and genetic breeding, we are now able to produce more.

Biography

Adriana Brondani has her expertise in Science Communication. She is the Executive Director of Council for Information on Biotechnology (CIB) since 2011. She is a Biologist, and has completed her Master and PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. She has years of experience in research and teaching in hospital and education institutions. Currently, she is a Professor of MBA in Agribusiness at Sao Paulo University and at the Brazilian Association of Nutrology (ABRAN).