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Plant Breeders Release 'Open Source Seeds'

Posted by samzenpus on from the people's-meadow dept.

mr crypto (229724) writes "A group of scientists and food activists are launching a campaign to change the rules that govern seeds. They're releasing 29 new varieties of crops under a new 'open source pledge' that's intended to safeguard the ability of farmers, gardeners and plant breeders to share those seeds freely."

3 of 136 comments (clear)

  1. Shame this happened by MrDoh! · · Score: 5, Insightful

    It's a sorry state of affairs that this has had to be done. I wonder if I can open source my DNA before someone else patents it.

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    Waiting for an amusing sig.
    1. Re:Shame this happened by johanw · · Score: 4, Insightful

      "This is a symbolic marketing/propaganda move against Monsanto"

      Good. Death to Monsanto.

    2. Re:Shame this happened by rgbatduke · · Score: 5, Insightful

      The interesting question will be GPL viral. So far, Monsanto et. al. have invoked a viral clause to protect the genes of their products that are literally carried by the wind to non-purchaser's fields who happen to grow their own seed crop. Imagine the impact of having genes carried the other way! Sorry Monsanto, the hybrid crop is now GPL, unless you take steps to prevent e.g. corn pollen from blowing in the wind.

      Never work, of course, but it is a nice fantasy.

      rgb

      --
      Even when the experts all agree, they may well be mistaken. --- Bertrand Russell.