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This Week in Biotechnology

This week according to the New Energy World Network

 

“The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of the Navy are to develop advanced biofuels and other renewable energy systems.”

 

“Secretary of the Navy, Ray Mabus emphasised how partnering with USDA supports his vision for energy reform. He said, ‘In order to secure the strategic energy future of the United States, create a more nimble and effective fighting force, and protect our planet from destabilizing climate changes, I have committed the Navy and Marine Corps to meet aggressive energy targets that go far beyond previous measures.

Mabus announced five energy targets for the Navy and Marine Corps, with biofuels a major component. This includes developing ships with hybrid electric alternative power systems running on biofuel, and aircraft running on biofuel. The navy will also aim to cut petroleum use in its 50,000 non-tactical commercial fleet in half, by phasing in hybrid, flex fuel and electric vehicles, by 2015.”

So it looks like the Navy is going green.

This week, Singularity Hub writes about

Genetically modified or genetically engineered (GE) rice in China.

 

“China grows a lot of rice – about 60 million tonnes a year. It also consumes most of that, only exporting around 1% of its crop. So, high demand for production with little fear of export restrictions? Sounds like a recipe for genetic modification. According to Reuters, China recently approved the commercial use of genetically modified rice and corn to be phased in probably within the next two to three years. Both strains of GM grains were created locally. Huazhong Agricultural University developed Bt rice, which contains proteins from Bacillius thuringiensis bacteria that allow it to resist the rice stem borer, a major pest in China. The Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences likewise developed phytase corn which helps livestock more easily absorb necessary phosphorus from feed. Experts believe that widespread adoption of the GM rice in China may lead to an 80% reduction in pesticide use, and an 8% increase in crop yield. More food, less pollution. With a promise like that, we could see GM rice spread from China to the rest of the world.”

 

“The short term benefits for China could be enormous. Most of the country’s rice is grown on small farms, and these local farmers are exposed to a variety of pesticides to maintain their crops. Bt rice will drastically reduce the amount of needed pesticides and may relieve the need to flood fields. (Flooding is partially used to reduce the prevalence of parasites.) Phytase corn will not only allow livestock to more easily receive needed nutrients from feed, it will eliminate some of the phosphorus waste present in pig and cow manure.”

That’s it for this week. Remember biotech heals, fuels, and feeds the world.