Number: RL30594
Title: BIOSAFETY PROTOCOL FOR GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS: OVERVIEW
Authors: Alejandro E. Segarra and Susan R. Fletcher, Resources, Science, and Industry Division 
Abstract: The Biosafety Protocol to the 1992 Convention on Biological Diversity, adopted in early 2000, addresses the safe handling, transfer, and trade of biological organisms. The Protocol sets forth procedures and rules concerning trade in biological products, including genetically modified organisms (GMOs) that have engendered controversy, especially when they are used as agricultural crops. These rules are of key importance to U.S. economic interests in agriculture as well as those dealing in other genetically modified organisms. This report provides a summary of the key provisions of the Protocol and the major issues associated with them.
Pages: 9
Date: Updated January 18, 2001