Gene technology is a powerful tool that sits within the broader area of biotechnology - the use of living things to make or change products.

Traditional biotechnology has been used for centuries and includes activities like baking bread, brewing beer and making cheese.

Modern biotechnology includes the discovery of genes (genomics), understanding gene function and interactions (functional genomics), the use of DNA markers and gene technology.

A gene is a coded set of instructions that determine what an organism will look like and how it will function. Every living thing has genes.

Gene technology, which is also called genetic modification (GM) or genetic engineering (GE), includes controlling gene activity, modifying genes and transferring genes to new hosts.

It is used by scientists to introduce new characteristics, enhance existing characteristics or delete characteristics, depending on whether they are considered desirable or undesirable.

CSIRO uses gene technology in these ways, and you’ll find some examples of its work in this showcase, such as cotton that is resistant to insects. 

CSIRO’s insect-resistant GM cotton now makes up more than 90 per cent of Australia’s cotton crop and has led to an 80 per cent reduction in the use of chemical sprays, which is a positive impact for the environment and the communities where cotton is grown.