The Colombian Association of Seeds and Biotechnology (Acosemillas) urges agricultural producers to plant improved seeds to help mitigate the risks posed by climate variability.
In response to these challenges, agricultural biotechnology has become a vital tool. Seeds enhanced with this technology have proven to boost crop resilience against extreme weather, increase productivity, and ensure greater food security, according to a press release.
“Some of the improved seeds are designed to resist pests, diseases and have a greater adaptation to adverse weather conditions, which allows farmers to maintain their yields even in situations of environmental stress,” said Leonardo Ariza Ramírez, general manager of Acosemillas.
In addition, says the manager, these seeds in certain cases can reduce the need for chemicals, promoting more sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural practices.
The La Niña phenomenon, marked by colder sea temperatures in the Equatorial Pacific, has had a profound impact on global agriculture, affecting key crops such as rice, corn, potatoes, soy, and sorghum. Adverse weather conditions, including heavy rainfall and prolonged droughts, have decreased both the productivity and quality of many crops, threatening food security in various regions worldwide.
The Agricultural Rural Planning Unit (Upra) highlighted in a November newsletter that December serves as a transitional month between the second rainy season and the first dry season of the year in much of the Andean, Caribbean, and Orinoquia regions. Due to the potential influence of La Niña, the transition between these two seasons may be delayed, leading to extended rainfall. According to Upra, January and February typically represent the dry season across much of the country, but La Niña could alter this pattern, causing increased rainfall, especially in the Andean and Pacific regions.
March is another transitional month, moving from the first dry season to the first rainy season in the Andean region, with the possibility of increased rainfall during this period as well.
The release notes that although the rainy season is expected to last a couple of weeks and rains will be present in the dry season at the beginning of 2025; this does not mean that the effects of the dry season will not be present; therefore, an agricultural water deficit is expected in much of the country due to such conditions,” reported the specialized professional of the Upra, Alfonso Triana.
For years, Acosemillas has been dedicated to supporting its affiliates in the research and development of biotechnology-enhanced seeds. This commitment ensures farmers receive certified, high-quality products while also contributing to global food security.
“Through collaboration with scientific institutions, we are working to develop innovative solutions that can face the challenges posed by climate change and phenomena such as La Niña,” said Ariza Ramírez.
The union leader also assured that “although improved seeds are a powerful tool, their effectiveness is enhanced when combined with adequate cultural and agronomic practices.”
