Who is responsible for ensuring GM crops do not cause harm to the environment?
The Office of the Gene Technology Regulator is responsible for overseeing genetically modified research and products in Australia. Before any new GM crops are brought to market they are thoroughly evaluated for environmental and human health and safety impacts on a case-by-case basis by the Regulator, often over a period of eight years. Public comment is sought before GM plants are released into the environment. The safety aspects of all GM crop trials are rigorously assessed by the Gene Technology Technical Advisory Committee (GTTAC) an independent panel of scientific experts. Risk management plans are also devised to manage any possible risks to human health and the environment. Ongoing assessment and evaluation of the crops is also part of the safety assessment process. A GM commodity will not be allowed to be released into the environment in Australia if it is deemed to pose unmanageable risks. 37. How much do we know about the environmental impact of GM crops on insects and other
