Summary
The video delves into the challenges of accessing wild plant varieties commercially, using the example of original Latin American potatoes. It traces the shift from peasant-led plant selection to industrial seed companies in the 19th century, emphasizing the financial motivations that drove this change. The discussion expands to the implications of the 2011 seed law, restricting farmers to cultivating only 21 species and raising concerns about the dominance of industrial seeds over traditional varieties for organic farmers. Additionally, insights into the seed development process involving crossbreeding and cultivation over several years are provided.
Introduction
The speaker discusses the difficulty in finding wild varieties of plants in commerce and gives an example of the original potatoes found by colonists in Latin America.
Evolution of Seed Industry
Exploration of the transition from peasant-driven plant selection to industrialized seed companies in the 19th century, highlighting the financial and industrial vision that emerged.
Impact of Seed Law
Discussion on the seed law of December 2011 that prohibited farmers from using industrial seeds, allowing only 21 species for cultivation and imposing restrictions on royalties.
Seed Development Process
Insight into the seed development process, where a Breton seed company invests in developing new plant varieties, involving crossbreeding and years of cultivation.
Concerns of Organic Farmers
Concerns raised by organic farmers regarding the use of industrial seeds, withdrawal of traditional varieties, and the potential impact on their farming practices.
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