![](https://food-dk.imascientist.org.uk/files/2025/01/Ben-150x150.png)
BEN BEATON
23 year old farmer
Agriculture is transforming. Shifting from growing big fields of single crops to small amounts of many crops boosts resilience and biodiversity. Organic farming can’t yield enough food for our world – but we can use pesticides less.
This means less pesticides in food, and it will protect pollinators like bees, which in turn protects the diversity of food we can grow. Soil health science can help us plant sustainably, and GM (genetic modification), in countries that allow it, can increase disease resilience or supplement diets.
FACT
GM golden rice produces its own beta-carotene, providing vital vitamin A for people who don’t get enough.
ISSUE
The average UK farmer is 59 years old – towards the end of their career, they are less keen to take risks.
QUESTION
Will GM golden rice reduce the diversity of rice we choose?