Transgenic Crops in Developing Countries - Can New Business Models Make a Difference in Fostering Sustainability and Mitigating Non-Technological Risks from Innovation?

Risks and opportunities of innovations in transgenic crops are subject of heated debates. While the scientific evaluation is largely positive, public perception remains skeptical. Besides technological issues, non-technological risks such as potential destabilization of traditional agro-systems, marginalization of smallholders, and concentration of knowledge influence the suitability of transgenic crops to foster sustainable development especially in developing countries. The article discusses whether governmental actors and specifically designed business models can mitigate these risks and leverage the potential strengths of this technology for poor farmers. The necessity and also possible elements of new business models are discussed