CARTAGENA PROTOCOL ON BIOSAFETY TO THE CONVENTION ON BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY
The use of modern biotechnology to alter the genetic structure of life-forms has gained wide acceptance over the past 30 years. Products such as living modified organisms (LMO's), popularly referred to as genetically modified organisms (GMO's), are purported to ensure future food security and to benefit to the environment by reducing the need for farmland, irrigation and pesticides. However, much is still unknown about how such products will behave and evolve in the natural environment. The broad consensus is that the use of modern biotechnology must be developed with adequate safety measures. The global biotechnology industry and cross-border trading of LMO's demand that international rules be developed and upheld. In answer to this demand the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity launched negotiations to address potential risks which eventually culminated in January 2000 in the adoption of the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety.
The Protocol provides an extensive regulatory system for ensuring safe transfer, proper handling and responsible use of LMO's that are subject to transboundary movement while seeking to protect biodiversity from potential risks. Procedures address the proper transport of LMO's intended to be introduced into the environment as well as those intended for consumption. The Protocol also calls for appropriate documentation specifying the traded LMO's and the relevant contact information. Requirements are designed to provide importing Parties with the information they need to make informed decisions about whether or not to accept LMO imports, together with guidelines for safe handling.
Decisions made in regard to imported LMO's are in accordance with scientifically sound risk assessments, the methodology of which is provided in the Protocol. In the case of insufficient scientific knowledge, the importing Party may use precaution in making their decision, and may also take into account socioeconomic considerations in reaching a decision. Parties are additionally required to adopt measures to prepare for accidental release of LMO's
Other main features of the Protocol include its provision for a Biosafety Clearing-House (BCH) to facilitate the exchange of scientific, technical, environmental and legal information concerning LMO's International cooperation designed to help developing countries has been highlighted in the Protocol in order to build human resources and institutional capacities in biosafety. Parties are encouraged to assist with scientific and technical training and to promote the transfer of technology. Parties are required to promote and facilitate public awareness, education and participation concerning the subject of the Protocol. The public is consulted in the decision-making process regarding LMO's and made aware of the results of those decisions.
Further information:
Biosafety and the Environment (PDF) [UNEP]
Online resources:
>> Back to top