The world’s largest biotechnology company has produced its first ethical code of conduct.
US-based Monsanto produced the code, which stresses the need for greater dialogue, transparency and respect, after holding talks with scientists, government regulators, consumers and farmers.
Monsanto chief executive Hendrik Verfaillie said the company had previously ‘missed the fact that [biotechnology] raises major issues for people – issues of ethics, of choice, even of democracy and globalization.’
The company has faced severe reputational challenges in the last five years as a result of public concern about genetic modification.
‘We listened to why people were concerned about our actions and we heeded what others had to say and are now responding,’ Verfaillie added.
The pledge commits Monsanto to ‘behave honourably, ethically and openly’. The company will establish an external advisory council to encourage dialogue with public institutions, non-profit groups and local industry.
Scientific data on product safety will be made more accessible, with results placed on the internet.
On the environment, the code commits the company to working with growers worldwide over the next five years to conserve soil.
Friends of the Earth called the code a ‘propaganda exercise’ and said: ‘If Monsanto are genuine in their desire to engage in dialogue with the wider population they will have to enter into it with an open mind and be prepared for the population to say “no” to GM crops.’