Last year, the City of Richmond made a groundbreaking decision to ban the growth of genetically engineered crops in the city. Although the city doesn't have power to enforce such a ban, as GE crops are federally regulated, proponents said it sent a stronger message to the government.
A year later, council has been writing letters to the higher levels of government to seek stronger labeling requirements in supermarkets, according to Coun. Harold Steves.
"GMO (genetically modified organism) bans are now happening across B.C. so it's up to the province and the federal government to enact a ban," said the proponent of organic farming. "It shows people at a local level want it. But the federal government is funded by big companies like Monsanto." Steves added the matter will be discussed at this September's Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) Convention in Vancouver.
"There'll be some resolutions at the meeting," he said. "So it's going to be an interesting fall."
At the time council passed the ban, it was also said the city would integrate education about consumer choice and awareness of the issue into public outreach programs.
Although the city hasn't approached this yet, strides in attaining farmland will incorporate a major educational program.
Steves anticipates with the opening of new farms and agricultural programs, education and a discussion of GMOs and organic agriculture will be incorporated.
