Project goal

The GMO ERA Project is a pioneering initiative driven by public sector scientists to develop tools to support environmental risk assessment (ERA) of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Our goal is to give decision makers around the globe tools and training to help them decide what information and data are most important and appropriate for an ERA that is tailored to the GM crop and agricultural system in their country. Our methods enable local scientists and decision makers to reach their own decisions, based on transparent and scientific processes.

For more information, read the final report on the first two phases of the Project (2002-2007). The report is designed to be downloaded and printed double-sided, in color or black and white.

Project methodologies

The methodologies are a set of interlinked modules of questions related to case-specific risk assessment, and corresponding methods and experiments. The scientific scope of the methodology is divided into five sections that address the concerns about environmental risks. More information on the methodologies in the science section:

• problem formulation and options assessment
• transgene expression and locus structure
• gene flow and its consequences
• non-target and biodiversity impacts
• resistance evolution and management

The approach and methodologies have been developed using real case studies in Kenya, Brazil and Vietnam, which have been published by CABI. The project is associated with the IOBC Global Working Group on Transgenic Organisms in IPM and Biocontrol. A group of public sector scientists from all over the world has been assembled to develop the science - the Core Group. It is a forum for scientific exchange among public sector environmental scientists involved in the project. Membership is open to all public sector scientists.

The project in its phase I was called the GMO Guidelines Project.

Ploughing, Kenya

Cotton field, Brazil