AFSI conducted a series of focus groups across the United States to capture qualitative insights on public attitudes around using gene drive technology for agricultural pest control. These findings informed a national survey that Rutgers University designed and administered to further explore public attitudes around the technology’s use and governance and examine how views differ across regions and between urban and rural populations. The research team then analyzed informal, formal, and legally binding governance structures that provide opportunities for public engagement on these issues. 

With the help of guest speakers to set the context, the workshop will address current regulations and governance of gene drive technology, challenges and opportunities of gene drive strategies for pest control in agricultural systems, public trust in regulatory agencies, and support for policies on agricultural gene drives. The research team will then share findings on what factors determine whether the public considers gene drives acceptable and under what societal and regulatory circumstances.

As conversations around gene drive governance continue to evolve, research grounded in public values can help ensure that policy decisions are both scientifically sound and responsive to societal concerns. This virtual workshop is open to the public. The most up-to-date information, along with speaker bios and a registration link, can be accessed on our website.