Maize and Biodiversity

The purpose of this report is to examine, from different perspectives, issues related to gene flow from transgenic varieties of maize to Mexican land races and their wild relatives, and the conservation of biodiversity in this centre of origin.

At the conclusion of this examination the Secretariat will prepare a report including findings, background papers on key issues, and recommendations from our advisory group.

The final report will be presented to the Council of the CEC. In general terms the report may consider the:

• socio-economic and ecological aspects of traditional maize agriculture;
• state of scientific knowledge on the potential risks and benefits of transgenic maize;
• economics of transgenic maize, including the effect on traditional farming in rural Mexico;
• links between genetic maize diversity, biodiversity, and the livelihood of Mexican rural communities; and,
• national and international legal frameworks.

In addition to the report, specific recommendations from the advisory group will be presented to the Council of the CEC.