SynTech reinforces the role of NTOs in agricultural biosecurity

In the context of Non-Target Organisms (NTOs) having gained increasing relevance in the field of agricultural biotechnology, SynTech Research exposes the need to ensure the safety and sustainability of genetically modified crops. 

NTOs, which are organisms that are not the direct focus of genetic modifications, play crucial roles in the ecosystem and, therefore, it is essential to understand how innovative technologies can affect their dynamics. Assessing the impact on NTOs has become a priority for biosafety regulations, ensuring that the introduction of new technologies in agribusiness does not compromise biodiversity and environmental balance.

The assessment of NTOs is essential for the development and regulation of technologies with modified genetic characteristics, according to the Biosafety Law - Law 11.105/05. This milestone in Brazilian agribusiness aims to guarantee the protection of the environment, agriculture, and human and animal health. The National Technical Commission on Biosafety (CTNBio), linked to the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MCTI), works directly in the formulation of technical standards and opinions that ensure food and environmental safety in Brazil.

In the face of the growing demand for expertise in conducting independent studies to evaluate NTOs in genetically modified crops, SynTech Research Group stands out. With certified experimental fields and equipped laboratories, the company offers a cutting-edge structure and has a highly qualified technical team, led by experts with more than 12 years of experience. 

NTO work involves identifying and monitoring arthropods in different agricultural environments, using techniques such as pitfall traps for soil-dwelling arthropods, sticky cards and yellow trays for aerial organisms, and active methods such as visual analysis and tapping cloth for direct capture on plants. These methods allow the collection of essential data to compare communities of organisms between conventional and genetically modified plants, providing a solid scientific basis for environmental risk assessment. After capture, the organisms undergo thorough screening, classification and identification, allowing detailed ecological and statistical analyses. In this way, SynTech contributes to ensuring the safety and sustainability of biotechnologies, providing critical information for the implementation of practices such as integrated pest management.

Tarciso Morescalchi Bortolin, Director of Studies at SynTech Research, explains that the study of Non-Target Organisms is “like a thermometer in the assessment of environmental impact risk, with this information it is possible to have a “north” for the advancement of Biotechnology”, reinforcing its value.

In addition to evaluating NTOs, SynTech conducts studies on residue degradability, nutritional composition, efficacy of biotechnologies and impact on soil microbiota, reinforcing its commitment to science, integrity and excellence in promoting safe and sustainable agricultural practices.