Science, Regulation, and Precedent for Genetically Modified Insects

Science, Regulation, and Precedent for Genetically Modified Insects

Questions have been raised about the transparency and scientific quality of regulatory processes applied in the first open field releases of genetically modified (GM) insects, and there is concern that inappropriate precedents have been set [1], particularly through generic risk assessments covering multiple species and technologies [2]. The GM insects tested in the field so far are intended fo...

Scientific Standards and the Regulation of Genetically Modified Insects

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Control Using Genetically Modified Insects Poses Problems for Regulators

Insects are the pre-eminent form of metazoan life on land, with as many as 10 individuals alive at any one instant and over three-quarters of a million species described. Although it is estimated that there are as many as 14,000 species that are blood feeders [1], only three to 400 species regularly attract our attention [2]. Some of these are of immense importance to us, as vector-borne diseas...

The Environmental Effects of Genetically Modified Crops Resistant to Insects

Transgenic crops are currently being cultivated on a commercial scale in many countries. The area devoted to transgenic pest resistant varieties worldwide reached 13 million hectares in 2001. These varieties offer valuable benefits but also pose potential risks. Assessments of their impact on the environment are conducted before they are approved for commercial use, as required by the regulator...

Australia's environmental regulation of genetically modified organisms: risk and uncertainty, science and precaution