Issue

The seed industry has quickly consolidated. Intellectual property practices (e.g., patents on seed) stand out as the leading cause, where much of our commercial seed is now owned and managed in the hands of a few transnational firms. This control has stifled innovation in plant breeding, and creates barriers to improving the availability, quality, and integrity of organic seed.

Response

Organic Seed Alliance works to address consolidation through regional seed networks that result in transformative change at the national level. Their collaborative research emphasizes diversity, ecology, and shared benefits. OSA's education builds the base of knowledge necessary for stewarding seed and enhancing diversity through on-farm innovation and their advocacy promotes the benefits of organic seed while simultaneously confronting threats.

Organic Seed Alliance - Website

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