Overview
The lecture examines Monsanto's controversial history, including its role in chemical manufacturing, genetically modified crops, herbicides, seed patents, and its influence on agriculture and public policy.
Monsanto's Early History and Chemical Production
- Monsanto was founded in 1901 as a chemical company, first producing saccharin.
- Expanded in the 1920s to manufacture synthetic goods, pesticides, and herbicides.
- Became a major producer of Agent Orange, used in the Vietnam War, leading to severe health effects and birth defects.
- Manufactured PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) from the 1930s to the 1970s, which were later banned due to toxicity and environmental pollution.
- Several Monsanto sites are now designated as Superfund sites due to hazardous waste contamination.
Shift to Agriculture and GMOs
- Monsanto rebranded in 2001, focusing on agriculture, especially genetically modified (GM) seeds.
- First to modify a plant cell in the 1980s; public debate over GMOs intensified in the 1990s.
- EU imposed strict regulations on GM crops, leading Monsanto to withdraw from that market.
- US does not mandate GMO labeling, while the EU and UK do.
Herbicides, Pesticides, and Environmental Impact
- Monsanto produces glyphosate-based herbicide Roundup, whose safety is debated.
- Linked to bee population decline due to pesticides containing neonicotinoids, prompting EU bans.
- Faced lawsuits over health effects, such as the poisoning of a French farmer by Lasso.
Seed Patents and Market Control
- Monsanto patents GM seeds, which are resistant to its herbicide Roundup.
- Accused of seeking global food supply control; three companies control over half the world’s seed market.
- Actively enforces patents through lawsuits against farmers and small businesses.
- Argues strong IP protections are necessary for innovation and research investment.
Influence and Lobbying Efforts
- Spends millions on lobbying; employs many lobbyists.
- “Monsanto Protection Act” allegedly drafted with company input, limiting court intervention against GM crops.
- Concerns over the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) possibly increasing corporate control of intellectual property.
Cultural and Ethical Debates
- Critics suggest Western demand for cheap, plentiful food drives monoculture and GM crop adoption.
- Advocacy for local, organic, and seasonal farming as alternatives to reliance on large agribusiness.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Agent Orange — A herbicide used in the Vietnam War, causing severe health and environmental damage.
- PCBs (Polychlorinated Biphenyls) — Toxic industrial chemicals formerly used in electrical equipment.
- GM (Genetically Modified) Crops — Plants altered at the genetic level for agricultural purposes.
- Glyphosate — An herbicide, main ingredient in Monsanto’s Roundup.
- Neonicotinoids — Insecticides linked to bee population decline.
- Superfund Sites — Polluted locations requiring long-term EPA clean-up.
- Patent Infringement — Unauthorized use of patented technology.
- Lobbying — Activities aimed at influencing government policy or legislation.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Read more about the Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement and its implications for agriculture.
- Research current regulations on labeling GM foods in your country.
- Consider the impact of food choices—explore local and organic food options.