Swiss vote 'no' to genetically engineered crops

"Switzerland, the homeland of genetic engineering giant Syngenta, is clearly unwilling to risk health, food security or the environment by allowing crops to be genetically engineered. Today's GE crop ban will help defend against these risks but will not provide full protection," said Yves Zenger from Greenpeace Switzerland.GE field trials will still be allowed under the new moratorium and products deriving from animals fed on GE crops can still be imported into the country. Pending applications for GE food and animal feed could also still be approved.A new opinion poll (2) released by Greenpeace today shows that the majority of Swiss people want the moratorium to go further because they are not only against GE crops but also reject GE food and believe field trials are risky. A vast majority also wants mandatory labelling of any products derived from animals fed on GE crops."Greenpeace hopes Switzerland's rejection of GE crops inspires others around the world to stand up and say 'no' to genetic engineering. We also encourage the Swiss public to continue to voice its opposition to this highly risky technology. Every route of contamination must be closed before people can rest assured their plants and the food on their plates is not contaminated," said Geert Ritsema, Greenpeace International GE campaigner.Greenpeace is campaigning to protect our food security, health and our environment by calling for a complete ban on genetically modified organisms. It is calling for sustainable food production, which meets the interest of all: people, farmers and the environment.Greenpeace is an independent, campaigning organization, which uses non-violent, creative communication tools to put the spotlight on global environmental problems and to drive towards solutions essential for a green and peaceful future.

Other contacts: Yves Zenger, Greenpeace Switzerland media officer +41 786 820091Geert Ritsema, Greenpeace International GE-campaigner +31 646 197328Judit Kalovits, Greenpeace International Communications +31 621 296914

Notes: (1) The majority vote has been announced; final figures will be confirmed later this evening.(2) The legislative system in Switzerland is the only one in the world that gives people a direct say in law making as it permits regular referendums.(3) For details, see www.greenpeace.ch (available in German only).