Biosafety protocol
Model National Biosafety Law: an introduction to the Model National Law on Biosafety
Recommended model for countries developing national biosafety legislation
Authors:
; Third World Network
Publisher:
Third World Network , 1999
Nations of the South are increasingly faced with the prospect of the introduction into their countries of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and products derived from GMOs. This paper outlines a model for countries seeking to put in place national biosafety laws.
The model law includes the following:
- a high level of public participation and consultation is required
- the importance of risk assessment, which should be based upon the precautionary principle, that is, the absence of scientific evidence or certainty does not preclude the decision makers from denying approval of the introduction of the GMO if this may cause, or have a proven or theoretical potential to cause, harm
- factors in addition to risk assessment must also be taken into account before the approval is given, including cost-benefit assessment including an assessment of its contribution to sustainable development
- any approval given can be revoked if new evidence, or a review of existing information, shows potential risks, based on the precautionary principle
- all GMOs must be identified and labelled
- there can be no export of GMOs or products without prior informed consent
