Abstract

Reference: US NRC 2000
Title: Genetically Modified Pest-Protected Plants: Science and Regulation
Authors: National Research Council
Publisher: The National Academies Press, 2101 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington DC 20418 USA
Publication details: 2000. 292p.

Utilizing information gained over the past decade, the National Research Council is releasing this report on genetically modified pest-protected plants.  It provides timely advice to researchers, developers, and regulatory agencies involved in reviewing the science surrounding the regulation of genetically modified pest-protected crops.  The report addresses only one aspect of the ongoing revolution in the life sciences and agriculture, and it is careful to point out where more research and scientific information is needed to answer remaining questions. 

The report is composed of four chapters and an Executive Summary.  Chapter 1 is an introductory chapter that discusses issues that led to the initiation of the present study, current EPA, USDA, and FDA policies, the task given to the committee by the NRC, and role of this report.  Chapter 2 deals with the potential environmental and human health impacts of pest-protected with risks and benefits being among the issues discussed.  Chapter 3 provides several case studies related to the commercial production of transgenic genetically modified pest-protected crops, analyzes the 1994 and 1997 rules proposed by EPA for the regulation of plant-pesticides, and identifies several research needs.  Chapter 4 provides an overview of the current regulation of plant products under the coordinated framework for the regulation of biotechnology by EPA, FDA, and USDA and provides recommendations that the committee believes will improve this process. 

A solid regulatory system and scientific base are important for acceptance and safe adoption of agricultural biotechnology, as well as for protecting the environment and public health.  The current US coordinated framework has been operating effectively for over a decade.  The committee had identified several kinds of improvements that would be helpful in the face of a larger number of commercialized transgenic pest-protected plants and novel gene products introduced into these plants.  Those improvements might be necessary for increased confidence in US agricultural biotechnology both domestically and worldwide.

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