December 13, 2000

Representatives from 177 countries are meeting this week in Montpellier, France, to discuss the operational procedures of the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, an agreement adopted earlier this year to establish a system of international trade in genetically modified organisms (GMOs). According to the United Nations Environment Program, key issues to be discussed at the meeting include a review of international rules and standards pertaining to the handling, packaging and identification of GMOs, and facilitating decision-making by parties that may wish to import GMOs.

With the debate over genetically-modified foods continuing to make headlines around the world, "the sooner governments make the protocol operational, the sooner we can assure the public that human health and the natural environment are being fully protected," said UNEP Executive Director Klaus Toepfer.

Adopted in January, the Biosafety Protocol aims to ensure the safe transfer, handling and use of genetically (or living) modified organisms that may have adverse effects on the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity, taking also into account risks to human health.

Crafting the procedures and practical details that are required to make the protocol effective are part of the Montpellier agenda. Key issues include a system for information sharing, including the Biosafety Clearing House; a review of international rules and standards pertaining to the handling, transport, packaging and identification of GMOs; options for establishing a compliance regime and facilitating decision-making by parties that may wish to import GMOs.

Under the protocol governments will decide whether or not to accept imports of genetically modified organisms on the basis of risk assessments. These assessments are to be undertaken in a scientific manner according to recognized risk assessment techniques. However, because the protocol is based on the precautionary approach, importers can decide not to accept GMO imports if there is a lack of scientific certainty due to insufficient relevant scientific information and knowledge on whether or not the organism poses a risk to the environment or human health.

The protocol was adopted by 150 governments and has thus far been signed by 77 governments plus the European Community. It will remain open for signature at United Nations Headquarters in New York until June 4. After 50 governments have ratified the protocol it will enter into force and become legally binding. Two countries, Bulgaria and Trinidad and Tobago, already have ratified. If governments move quickly, that could happen as early as 2002.